Our portfolio opportunities

About Switch Bioworks

Based in San Carlos, CA, Switch Bioworks is redefining bioproduction through programmable microbes. Beginning with agriculture, we are developing nitrogen-fixing microbial consortia that live directly on crop roots. This replaces expensive, carbon-intensive synthetic fertilizers with a living alternative that reshapes the economics and sustainability of farming.

Our edge lies in our namesake “switches” - synthetic biology control systems that activate microbial production only when and where it’s needed. By combining microbial ecology with advanced genetic control systems, Switch is building a biological platform with the potential to transform agriculture and a wide range of industrial bioproduction applications.

Our mission is simple: improve planetary health while reducing fertilizer costs at the farm gate. Learn more at www.switchbioworks.com

About the Position

Switch Bioworks is seeking a temporary Research Associate to join the Plant Microbiology Team (PMT) in support of the 2026 field trial season. This is a temporary, hourly (non-exempt, benefits-exempt) role running from approximately July through September 2026, with a schedule of about 35 hours per week.

The person hired will process corn rhizosphere samples in-house, covering rhizosphere extraction through DNA extraction and sequencing prep, and gather whole-root colonization data at key field trial timepoints. The person will work closely with the Plant Microbiology Team on an active sampling schedule. This is a hands-on execution role requiring independent, rigorous protocol work and sample tracking.

Objectives and Responsibilities

• Perform rhizosphere and DNA extraction root materials collected from corn fields following established SOPs.

• Support internal library prep and sequencing run management for processed rhizosphere samples.

• Assist with data integration, QC, and back-end assembly of colonization datasets across trial programs.

• Maintain rigorous sample tracking and processing records for full traceability from field collection through sequencing.

• Coordinate with the Plant Microbiology Team on sample intake and processing timelines, and maintain a clean, compliant lab workspace.

Characteristics of a Successful Candidate

• Must be authorized to work full-time in the U.S. and able to work on-site daily in the California Bay Area.

• Familiarity with molecular biology lab techniques, particularly DNA extraction and handling of biological samples.

• Exceptional attention to detail with proven organizational and time management skills, including the ability to process high volumes of samples accurately and on schedule.

• Comfortable working independently through a defined protocol once trained, with minimal ongoing supervision.

• Strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills for effective cross-functional collaboration with the Plant Microbiology Team.

• A mission-driven team player eager to contribute in a fast-paced startup environment during a high-volume sampling season.

Preferred Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Plant Science, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Soil Biology, or a related discipline.

• Prior hands-on experience with DNA extraction and/or rhizosphere or soil sample processing is a plus.

• Ability to handle large sample sets and maintain organized, accurate data records.

• Work collaboratively with the team and support to accomplish the goals.

Position Details

• Employment type: Temporary, non-exempt (hourly)

• Benefits Eligibility: Non-eligible

• Estimated Duration: Approximately 8–10 weeks (July–September 2026)

• Expected Schedule: On-site approximately 35 hours/week

• Pay rate: $30/hour