About Us Deciphr Health is a seed-stage biotech developing programmable DNA nanostructures for next-generation point-of-care diagnostics. Our first clinical application targets preeclampsia screening — a condition that affects 1 in 25 pregnancies with no adequate rapid test. We're building from our R&D lab in San Carlos, CA.
The Role You'll own the aptamer discovery pipeline end-to-end: from SELEX campaign design through NGS-based candidate selection to biochemical characterization of lead binders. This is a hands-on bench role with high autonomy — you'll be the team's go-to expert on nucleic acid selection, modification, and bioconjugation. You'll also contribute to our broader DNA nanostructure platform (with internal training provided).
What You'll Do
- Design and run SELEX campaigns (affinity-based and capture-release formats) against clinically relevant protein targets
- Perform site-specific bioconjugation of oligonucleotides to proteins, fluorophores, and surface chemistries
- Purify and QC modified oligos and conjugates (HPLC, FPLC, spin-column)
- Prepare and manage NGS libraries to identify top aptamer candidates from selection rounds
- Monitor selections via qPCR/RT-PCR and develop binding validation assays
- Support fabrication and testing of DNA nanodevices following internal protocols
What We're Looking For
- PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or related field — or MS with 3–5+ years of hands-on industry experience
- Deep, demonstrated expertise in SELEX (not just familiarity — you've run campaigns)
- Strong oligo handling skills: purification, chemical modification, conjugation chemistry
- Proficiency with HPLC, qPCR, and NGS library prep workflows
- Comfort working in a startup environment with minimal infrastructure and high ownership
Nice to Have
- Exposure to DNA nanotechnology or structural DNA assembly
- Experience with phage display, cell-SELEX, or tissue-based selections
- HPLC instrument maintenance and troubleshooting
Compensation Base salary commensurate with experience + meaningful early-stage equity.
Location San Carlos, CA (on-site; this is a lab-based role).
