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