Research Associate, Drug Discovery

Role overview

General Proximity is an early-stage biotechnology company building a new class of induced proximity medicines. Its OmniTAC discovery platform is designed to create molecules that enlist the cell’s own machinery to address targets that have been difficult to treat with older approaches.

The company is looking for a capable research associate to join the Platform/Drug Discovery team and support the creation of a novel therapeutic modality.

What you will do

In this role, you will work closely with the Biology team to advance the core discovery platform and move new therapeutic concepts forward. The work involves planning and running experiments both independently and with guidance from senior scientists, improving and adapting assays and protocols, preparing biological materials, working with mammalian cell cultures, using a range of advanced lab methods, analyzing results, and keeping experimental records organized and accurate.

Who they are looking for

The ideal candidate is self-directed, highly motivated, and comfortable taking ownership of work in a fast-moving startup setting. The role calls for persistence, enthusiasm, and a team-oriented mindset, along with a genuine interest in developing medicines that can help patients with serious disease.

Qualifications and preferred background

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related discipline is expected. Prior industry exposure is helpful, though strong work ethic and the ability to learn quickly are valued more highly. Candidates should understand small-molecule drug discovery and its connection to human disease, communicate clearly in both writing and speech, and be comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively.

Technical capabilities

Experience should include mammalian cell culture, aseptic handling, passaging and seeding cells, molecular biology and cloning, PCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, microscopy, biochemical assays, and assay development and optimization. A solid grounding in core biology and lab practices is also important.

Preferred additions

Additional experience that would strengthen an application includes at least 2 years of post-degree experience, HTS and phenotypic cell-based assay development, transient or stable protein expression and purification, immunoprecipitation, CRISPR-Cas systems, statistical analysis tools such as Prism, automated liquid handling or robotic dispensing systems, and prior work on teams that advanced research into clinical development.

Benefits and workplace highlights

Compensation includes meaningful equity. Benefits feature medical, dental, and vision coverage, a One Medical membership, a 401(k) retirement plan, education and health/fitness incentive programs, and a reading budget. The company also supports meditation retreats, including a ten-day Vipassana retreat without using vacation time.

The role is based at MBC BioLabs at 135 Mississippi Street in San Francisco, near the 22nd St Caltrain Station and several restaurants and cafés.

Company culture

General Proximity emphasizes focused, efficient work and avoids unnecessary meetings and after-hours pressure. The team values clear written communication, structured one-on-ones, and documentation that supports decision-making, reproducibility, faster onboarding, and strong alignment. The company also encourages breadth, ownership, and ongoing professional growth.

Additional notes

Compensation and title will be aligned with experience. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including women and members of underrepresented minority groups, are especially encouraged to apply.