Scientist, In Vitro Gametogenesis (Reproductive Biology)
Experience level: PhD or equivalent work experience
About Conception
Conception is pioneering the future of reproductive biology by generating functional human eggs from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Our mission is to unlock new possibilities for fertility, reproductive health, and genetic diversity. Successful development of our research could enable innovations such as removing age limits on motherhood, screening eggs for harmful genetic mutations, and enabling same-sex reproduction.
We are building a world-class team at the intersection of stem cell biology, developmental biology, and synthetic biology to make this vision a reality.
The position
We are seeking an exceptionally talented, motivated, and collaborative Scientist (PhD or equivalent work experience) to join our team. This is a cell culture–intensive role focused on hands-on experimentation, optimization, and analysis.
You will work with mouse pluripotent stem cell lines (ESCs and iPSCs) to develop and refine in vitro gametogenesis protocols, generating robust and reproducible datasets that support translation of this work into human systems. The ideal candidate combines deep practical experience in stem cell culture with a strong understanding of developmental biology and cell fate transitions.
What you’ll do
Develop and optimize methods to generate mouse iPSC lines
Maintain, differentiate, and engineer mouse ESC and iPSC lines using CRISPR-based tools
Improve and standardize differentiation protocols to derive different gonadal cell types from mouse iPSCs and/or ESCs
Drive experimental design, troubleshooting, and protocol development for in-vitro gametogenesis studies
Analyze data and communicate findings internally, contribute to overall experimental design and process standardization within the team
Maintain rigorous documentation, data tracking, and communication of experimental progress
What we’re looking for
Proven expertise in pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation, with demonstrated skill in maintaining stable, high-quality cultures (mouse preferred; human acceptable)
Strong foundation in developmental biology and stem cell biology, ideally in mouse systems
Experience with interpreting and discussing sequencing datasets (e.g., 10x scRNAseq, Smart-seq2)
Experience with one or more of the following is highly desirable:
Immunofluorescence analysis
FACS sorting
Understanding of epigenetic regulation and developmental transitions is a plus
Strong scientific foundation and a track record of executing complex experiments with rigor.
Mission-driven mindset and enthusiasm for high-impact work
Excellent communication, organization, and collaboration skills
Meticulous attention to detail and record-keeping
We value precision, curiosity, and scientific excellence as much as experience. If you thrive on rigorous cell culture work, continuous optimization, and impactful discovery, we’d love to hear from you.
Come and work with us
We are well funded and well connected in Silicon Valley. We offer competitive pay, company equity, and excellent healthcare benefits for these positions.
To learn more about the original mouse proof of concept to live birth that inspired us, see https://www.nature.com/articles/nature20104
To learn more about us, our mission, and approach you can read two features published by The New Yorker and MIT Technology Review.