Scientist

Vitra Labs Inc. • Full-time • San Francisco, California, United States • $130k / year • 3m ago

Scientist

In-Person, San Francisco

Full Time | $130,000 / year | Company Size: 1-10 employees

Vitra Labs is a venture-backed cell therapy company focused on developing methods to mature human oocytes ex vivo. Our hybrid computational / cell engineering platform allows us to reconstruct the developmental trajectory of oocytes in silico and screen maturation cues in vitro. This technology has the potential to eliminate hormone stimulation prior to oocyte retrieval and produce high-quality, mature oocytes that are ready for IVF; offering unprecedented possibilities to couples struggling with infertility and increasing access to fertility care.

Summary: We are seeking a highly motivated scientist with expertise in ovarian / reproductive biology, cell culture, and tissue engineering. This role will require a strong foundation in cell-based assays (2D and 3D stem cell or primary cell culture systems), and molecular techniques.

What you will be doing:

In this role, you will be designing and implementing methods to screen signaling candidates to induce differentiation of oocytes. More specifically, you will:

Design and optimize in vitro culture systems for oocytes and ovarian cell models.
Investigate cellular interactions, signaling pathways, and microenvironmental factors influencing oocyte development and maturation.
Develop and refine biochemical and molecular assays to assess cell viability, differentiation, and function.
Analyze and interpret experimental data, contributing to publications, patents, and conference presentations.
Stay current on literature in the space and use it to inform experimental design.
Develop and maintain laboratory documentation.
Contribute to building a positive company culture.

Your Qualifications:

PhD or equivalent in Molecular/Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or other related disciplines. PhD in reproductive biology; or strong foundation in ovarian physiology, cell and hormone signaling, or developmental biology is a plus.
Hands-on experience with primary cell culture, organoid models, or 3D tissue systems.
Proficiency in nucleic acid delivery methods.
Expertise in molecular biology techniques (qPCR, RNA sequencing,
immunohistochemistry, etc.).
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research setting.
Strong attention to detail and ability to carefully follow complex protocols.
Strong communication skills in technical writing, documentation, and oral presentation.

Interested candidates should submit their CV and a brief cover letter detailing your expertise in the aforementioned focus areas.