Image Analysis Research Associate (BS), Full-Time
Location: On-site
Employment Type: Full-time
Level: Entry-level BS
Who We Are:
Paterna Biosciences is a Salt Lake City-based biotech company focused on in vitro gametogenesis. We have collaborations and partnership with major academic institutions and the most prominent clinical leader in reproductive medicine, IVI-RMA Global Inc. Our mission is to make infertile men fathers by empowering them to be able to father children. Our team develops cutting-edge cell culture, genomics and bioinformatics technologies to restore male fertility through the culturing of male germline stem cells, and the production of functional male gametes for clinical in vitro fertilization.
More information on Paterna Biosciences can be found at www.paternabio.com
How You Will Make an Impact:
You will enter on the ground floor of a unique, industry-first biotechnology company, and be directly and immediately involved in helping us realize our mission and goals. You will perform (after specific training) under minimal supervision both standard and novel image analysis techniques. You will be part of the Image Analyses team and report to Paterna’s Manager of Quantitative Imaging. Joining us early provides the considerable opportunity for career progression and development within our company.
About the Role
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate with foundational imaging or image analysis experience to support our image-based research programs. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, works carefully and systematically, and is comfortable operating within established workflows while incorporating feedback from senior scientists. You will support routine image processing and collaborate with scientists across the team to ensure data integrity and clarity. This role emphasizes consistent execution of standardized, high-throughput workflows and is well suited for individuals who enjoy detail-oriented, process-driven work.
This full-time, entry-level, on site position is primarily computer-based, includes fluorescent and brightfield imaging, and has minimal wet lab responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute routine fluorescent and brightfield microscopy (imaging)
- Perform routine image analysis tasks for immunofluorescence and other microscopy datasets following established protocols.
- Manage imaging datasets and associated metadata, including data transfer, file organization, experiment-specific directory structures, and upload of quantitative results to shared databases and tracking systems.
- Carefully follow instructions, adopt standardized workflows, and adjust work based on feedback from senior scientists.
- Participate in quality control of imaging datasets and ensure consistent data organization and labeling.
- Communicate clearly about progress, issues, or unexpected findings.
- Collaborate with bench scientists to understand experimental context and data requirements.
- Maintain documentation of workflows and contribute to SOP development.
- Attend team meetings and share updates when appropriate.
- Support additional imaging, analysis, and operational initiatives as workflows and company needs evolve.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelors in Science (BS) in Biology, Bioengineering, Biomedical Sciences, Computer Science, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
- Either (1) experience with microscopy image acquisition (immunofluorescence or similar) or (2) experience with image analysis tools and coding.
- Familiarity with tools such as ImageJ/FIJI, QuPath, Ilastik, basic Python/R or SQL is a plus (not all required).
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow structured workflows.
- Openness to feedback and comfort working with oversight from senior scientists.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to handle large datasets.
- Enthusiasm for learning new tools and methods in a dynamic startup environment.
Your Compensation:
We offer competitive pay, equity, and excellent healthcare and retirement benefits for these positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Paterna Biosciences is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Every qualified applicant will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other groups as protected by law.