
Research Associate (Contract) at Atrium Therapeutics (San Diego, CA)
Atrium Therapeutics· San Diego, CA· $38–$43/hr·
Role details
Job description
Atrium is a biopharmaceutical company pioneering delivery of RNA therapeutics to the heart to transform the standard of care for people living with cardiomyopathies. Our proprietary technology leverages the targeted RNA delivery platform initially designed at Avidity, which combines the tissue selectivity of mAbs and other targeted delivery ligands with the precision of oligonucleotides. This unique combination is designed to allow selective targeting of the underlying genetic drivers of disease that were previously undruggable. Through targeted, non-viral delivery of siRNA to cardiac tissues, our approach has the potential to overcome key limitations of nonspecific viral and nanoparticle-based delivery systems, including challenges related to tissue specificity, immunogenicity, and redosing.
Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced in vivo Cardiac Biology Associate Scientist to characterize the in vivo properties of novel therapeutic Antibody Oligonucleotide Conjugates that deliver nucleic acids for cardiac programs. Previous experience handling rodents, using various dosing routes, and performing blood and tissue sample collection is required. Experience with mouse anesthesia is also required. Hands-on experience with mouse echocardiography is strongly preferred, and experience with electrocardiography (ECG) is also preferred. The Associate Scientist will closely collaborate with colleagues in preclinical discovery and present scientific results to multidisciplinary teams and senior management.
Responsibilities:
The candidate will be responsible for the execution of in vivo animal studies, with primary emphasis on mouse echocardiography to evaluate cardiac function and structure. Additional responsibilities will include the development and characterization of cardiac disease models, ECG studies, and collection of blood and tissue samples from rodents.
Education and Experience Requirements:
- B.S. degree in the biological sciences with at least 3 years of relevant in vivo animal study experience
- Experience with mouse cardiac disease models and evaluating in vivo cardiac function is highly preferred
- Knowledge of laboratory mouse behavior, anatomy, and guiding principles for animal welfare
- High proficiency in animal handling, various dosing techniques (IV, SC, IP, RO, IM), bleeding techniques (RO, tail, Submandibular, cardiac), necropsy and micro dissection, and sample handling.
- Demonstrate strong skills in aseptic techniques, proper handling of biological samples/specimens, protein biologics, and data collection and analysis.
- Proficient computer and data analysis/management skills - Microsoft Office Suite, Prism, and Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN)
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, including the ability to manage several projects simultaneously.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with little to no supervision and in a fast-paced and dynamic environment with a diverse team of co-workers
Why work at Atrium Therapeutics
- Cutting‑edge science: Opportunity to work on a novel RNA delivery platform with the potential to transform cardiology.
- Small, agile team (~41 employees) allows for high impact and visibility across functions.
- Founding team from Avidity Biosciences brings deep domain expertise and a proven track record in RNA therapeutics.
- Location: Onsite roles in San Diego, California (Science Center Drive), a major biotech hub.
- Current open roles include:
- Scientist II, Translational Medicine (San Diego, onsite)
- Senior Director, AOC Process Development & Manufacturing – Oligonucleotide (San Diego)
- Senior Director, Head of Quality Assurance (San Diego)
- Manager, Accounting (from LinkedIn)
- Culture: The company’s website emphasizes a commitment to patients with high unmet need, a collaborative environment, and a passion for precision medicine.
- Perks: Not explicitly stated, but typical biotech early‑stage includes equity, competitive compensation, and the chance to shape a young company’s culture.