Lab Technician
Lab Technician
About Proxima
Proxima (formerly VantAI) is advancing an AI-native approach to drug discovery by making protein interactions programmable. Our platform brings together foundation-model machine learning, a scalable data generation engine, and a partnership track record exceeding $5B in collaborations across the world’s leading biopharma and tech organizations. We’ve recently closed an oversubscribed seed round partnering us with an elite group of sophisticated and dedicated VCs including DCVC, Nvidia’s Nventures, AIX, Yosemite among others.
Neo-1 is our all-atom foundation model that combines state-of-the-art structure prediction and molecular generation in a single system. Neo-1 enables rapid exploration of chemical and structural space for high value, previously intractable targets, and in particular unlocks small molecule proximity therapeutics like molecular glues with AI for the first time.
In parallel, Proxima is developing an advanced structural interactomics platform built on proprietary cross-linking mass spectrometry (XLMS) technology and a lab equipped with next-generation mass spectrometry instrumentation. This platform produces proteome-scale interactome maps and helps identify small molecules that modulate protein interactions. Together with Neo-1, it creates an integrated system capable of co-folding protein complexes while also generating candidate small molecules to influence those interactions.
Based on these proprietary capabilities, Proxima is developing a robust pipeline of first-in-class medicines across several therapeutic areas including immunology and inflammation, cardiometabolic and aggregate-driven diseases. The company is currently advancing multiple assets through preclinical development that address both novel and well validated targets.
About the Role
We are seeking a hands-on Contract Lab Technician to support cell-based and molecular biology experiments in a fast-paced research environment. This role will focus on executing high-quality lab work, maintaining strong documentation standards, and supporting multiple ongoing projects with minimal supervision.
What You’ll Do
Perform mammalian cell culture and routine cell-based assays, including viability, proliferation, and apoptosis assays
Execute molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA
Maintain accurate experimental records in compliance with GLP standards
Independently manage multiple experiments and timelines in a dynamic lab setting
Troubleshoot experimental issues and contribute to continuous improvement of lab workflows
Collaborate closely with scientists to support discovery and development efforts
Must Haves
Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field
2–5 years of hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays in a drug discovery setting
Proficiency in core molecular biology techniques including PCR, Western blot, and ELISA
Strong troubleshooting skills and experience working under GLP or similar quality standards
Ability to manage multiple projects independently in a fast-paced environment
Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and record keeping
Nice to Haves
Experience with proteomics workflows
Experience generating lentiviral stable cell lines
Familiarity with CRISPR-based gene editing technologies
Proficiency with data analysis tools such as GraphPad Prism, ImageJ, or FlowJo
Basic statistical analysis skills
Prior pharmaceutical or biotech experience, particularly in drug discovery environments
Experience with advanced cell culture models, including primary cells or 3D cultures