Research Associate - Plasma Processing & Lab Management

About Prima Mente Prima Mente’s goal is to deeply understand the brain, to protect the brain from neurological disease and enhance the brain in health. We do this by generating our own data, building brain foundation models, and translating discovery to real clinical and research impact. We cannot support visa applications for this role. About the Role We are building a world-class wet lab team to drive innovation in molecular data generation. Our work spans automation, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and multi-omics approaches to create high-quality, high-throughput datasets that fuel our scientific and clinical objectives. Joining us means becoming part of a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment that values creativity, precision, and meaningful scientific advancement. The Research Associate will be supported and trained by experienced scientists. This is an opportunity to expand your knowledge and develop new skills. Role Focus & Expected Growth - Sample Ops, NGS & Automation In 1 month you will have set up the process for processing and storing incoming and outgoing samples for clinical studies. In 3 months you will also directly own the maintenance of the lab inventory, automation set up and be onboarded to standard wet lab techniques in our lab. In 6 months you have contributed to the analysis of incoming samples and now directly own many key parts of the protocol. Key Responsibilities Processing incoming and outgoing samples for clinical studies by supporting sample logistics, printing labels, tracking via our LIMS, processing and storage. Operating automated platforms for DNA/RNA extraction and NGS library preparation, including but not limited to QIAsymphony and Opentrons. Performing quality control assessments of DNA/RNA extracts and NGS libraries using instruments such as qPCR, Agilent TapeStation and Qubit. Contributing to NGS assay development to support novel bioprocess testing workflows, including validation and troubleshooting of molecular protocols. Conducting protein analysis experiments such as ELISA, Western blotting, and other immunoassays to support multi-omic workflows. Collaborating with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams to understand technical challenges and requirements, proactively proposing and implementing innovative analytical solutions. Documenting and maintaining accurate laboratory records in compliance with quality standards (e.g., GLP/GCLP), and preparing high-quality technical reports and data summaries for internal and external stakeholders. Maintaining lab organisation and readiness, including calibration of instruments, inventory of consumables, and adherence to safety protocols. Who You Are You enjoy being super hands on in the lab. You have excellent organisational and communication skills, with a collaborative and proactive mindset. You have an ability to work independently and in a close-knit team in a fast-paced, evolving research environment. - You're known in the lab as someone who gets shit done. - You bring energy to the room. - You build trust with people around you quickly. - You communicate proactively and specifically. - You have high attention to detail. - You are able to grow on your own and also soak up knowledge from those around you quickly. - You use AI extensively in each part of your work. - You will be in the lab every day of the week. Ideal Lab Experience B.S./M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field with at least 1 years of hands-on experience in either an academic or industry setting. Hands-on experience with automation platforms and molecular techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, PCR, NGS library prep). Familiarity with Illumina sequencing workflows and associated QC tools is highly preferred. Experience with protein quantification and characterisation techniques is a plus. Interview Process Our intention is to run our interview process end to end within 2 weeks. If we like your application, in person interviews will take place from 17-23rd Dec. You will interact with co-founders Ravi and Hannah, as well as every member of the wet lab team. Compensation & Benefits £30-45,000 - experience dependent, salary growth available on execution Equity BUPA medical insurance Pension at 3% Lunch paid for when you're in the office Culture Insight What we are doing is extremely hard. Prima Mente is for great people. We are team players who appreciate challenges, want to be hands-on, and thrive on curiosity by throwing away assumptions. We are focused on excellence at pace and huge personal growth. We are strong communicators who are highly disciplined and rigorous. Prima Mente operates with a flat organisational structure. We gain and share knowledge by contributing to multiple opportunities. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. We arrange our lives so we can work in person as much as possible. Our Values Exceptional performance at exceptional pace The solutions we build demand uncompromising quality and rigour. The problems we are solving are grave and present. Inquisitive discovery We embrace curiosity and creativity. Every question is a path to a transformational breakthrough. Radical candour We practice unwavering honesty and transparency in all our challenges and interactions. Purposeful individuality Every individual in our team is celebrated for their identity, uniqueness, and experiences. We are invested in each one’s bespoke personal development. Nurturing individuality will supercharge our collective purpose and spirit. Patient impact at scale We have a steadfast commitment to improve the health and well-being of patients globally. Every experiment run, every dataset analysed, and every innovation developed, is a step towards achieving a scalable impact.