Spun out of Stanford and MIT, Stellaromics is an innovative biotech startup founded in 2022 and located in Boston, MA. Our pioneering proprietary technology helps researchers and clinicians create comprehensive cellular maps enhancing our understanding of various diseases, with our flagship product STARmap and upcoming Pyxa™ suite of products. We have a passionate management team and committed investors who believe in our patented technology and overall mission to profoundly advance biomedical research and accelerate the discovery of life-saving treatments.

Role Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented Research Associate to support our client-facing service operation. This role is focused on delivering high-quality, reproducible tissue sectioning, and processing for 3D spatial transcriptomics assays to meet client specifications, turnaround times, and quality standards. The ideal candidate has strong hands-on histology experience, thrives in a process-driven environment, and is comfortable supporting multiple concurrent client projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Support all service-related spatial transcriptomics workflows (e.g., sectioning, sample preparation, reagent setup, imaging, and data handoff).
• Perform consistent, high-quality tissue sectioning using cryostats and microtomes for fresh frozen and FFPE client samples.
• Process and prepare samples according to validated SOPs for 3D spatial transcriptomics.
• Participate in continuous improvement of lab workflows and operational efficiency including development of SOPs.
• Assist with data packaging for customer readouts, reports, and internal reviews.
• Execute end-to-end service workflows, including sectioning, sample preparation, reagent setup, imaging support, and data/sample handoff according to SOPs and project plans.
• Ensure accurate sample tracking, labeling, and chain-of-custody throughout all service workflows.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot histology equipment to ensure reliable performance and minimal downtime.
• Run experiments independently. Document all work, metadata, and deviations in electronic lab notebooks in accordance with quality standards.
• Collaborate with project managers, scientists, and operations teams to meet client timelines and quality expectations.
• Adhere strictly to laboratory safety, biospecimen handling, and quality management procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, histotechnology, or a related field; HT/HTL certification a plus.
• 1–3+ years of hands-on histology or tissue processing experience in research, industry, or clinical labs.
• Demonstrated proficiency in cryosectioning and microtomy of fresh frozen and FFPE tissues.
• Familiarity with spatial transcriptomics platforms a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality tissue sections and sequencing data.
• Ability to follow SOPs, manage multiple tasks, and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication, organization, and data documentation skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with spatial transcriptomics platforms, immunohistochemistry (IHC), IF staining, or image analysis.
• Experience with RNA-preserving workflows or molecular biology techniques.
• Prior work supporting customer-facing lab services in regulated lab environments (CLIA, CAP, GLP) is beneficial.
• Experience with ELNs, LIMS, or sample tracking systems.

 Why Stellaromics?

• Innovative Technology: Be part of a company at the cutting edge of spatial biology and genomics, revolutionizing the way researchers understand biology.
• Impactful Role: You will have a significant impact on the department and the future of the company.
• Collaborative Environment: Work with a talented, passionate team in a culture that values creativity, innovation, and teamwork.
• Career Growth: As a high-growth company, we offer significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Compensation

An attractive compensation and benefits package based on market pay data will be commensurate with candidate skills, qualifications, and experience.

If you are interested in becoming part of a growing team energized by limitless possibilities, please submit your resume for consideration. To learn more about Stellaromics and our technology, please visit our website at www.stellaromics.com.

Stellaromics is an Equal Opportunity Employer striving to build an inclusive and diverse workplace culture.

The pay range for this role is:

70,000 - 95,000 USD per year (Headquarters)