Biocompatibility Scientist

About Neuralink:

We are creating devices that enable a bi-directional interface with the brain. These devices allow us to restore movement to the paralyzed, restore sight to the blind, and revolutionize how humans interact with their digital world.

Team Description:

The Biocompatibility team plays a critical role in supporting the manufacture of Neuralink devices by ensuring product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. We specialize in a range of essential processes, including toxicological risk assessments, batch release testing, chemical characterization, general analytical testing (such as mass spectrometry, chromatography, pH/conductivity, and general chemistry), microbiological testing (bioburden, environmental monitoring, and more), material analysis, clinical chemistry, and in-vitro biocompatibility assays.

Job Description and Responsibilities:

As a Biocompatibility Scientist, you will drive the development of in-vitro biocompatibility methods to advance the safety of our brain-computer interface technologies. This role offers the opportunity to own key processes in a collaborative, fast-paced environment focused on innovative medical devices, while ensuring alignment with regulatory standards like ISO 10993 and OECD guidance. The Biocompatibility Scientist will:

• Assist with the setup of necessary laboratory equipment, including calibration and qualification, if needed

• Lead the development, validation, and ongoing sustainment of in-vitro biocompatibility assays, ensuring reproducibility, appropriate endpoints, and compliance with international guidance

• Support general laboratory operations, including equipment management, calibration, and routine maintenance tasks to maintain a safe and efficient workspace

• Collaborate with engineering teams to provide expert consultation on the selection of materials and chemical agents used in manufacturing processes

• Prepare toxicological risk assessment reports, biological safety evaluations, and contribute to FDA and international regulatory submissions

• Own toxicological risk assessment (TRA), including developing and documenting standard operating procedures (SOPs) that outline the TRA process and utilizing risk assessment tools such as the QSAR toolbox, read-across methodologies, and other risk assessment resources

• Conduct hazard identification, literature reviews, and dose-response assessments to support TRA

• Interpret chemical characterization data in accordance with ISO 10993 standards and integrate findings into comprehensive biocompatibility assessments for medical devices

Required Qualifications:

• B.S. in molecular biology, toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, or a related field

• Strong background in cell biology, molecular biology, and/or toxicology

• >1 year of experience with in-vitro method development (including academic or research experience)

• Proficiency with confocal microscopy

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary teams

• Ability to conduct thorough literature searches

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. or PhD in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, or a related field

• Strong knowledge of ISO 10993 standards and experience with chemical characterization and biocompatibility evaluations

• Familiarity with in-vivo models

• >3 years of experience in toxicological risk assessment, preferably in the medical device industry or pharmaceutical industry

• Certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT) or similar professional credential

• Familiarity with FDA and international regulatory submissions

Expected Compensation:

The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the following range. Your actual base pay will be determined by your job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. We also believe in aligning our employees’ success with the company's long-term growth. As such, in addition to base salary, Neuralink offers equity compensation (in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSU)) for all full-time employees.

Base Salary Range:
$71,000—$119,000 USD

What We Offer:

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits listed below.

• An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and most talented experts from different fields

• Growth potential; we rapidly advance team members who have an outsized impact

• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan

• Paid holidays

• Commuter benefits

• Meals provided

• Equity (RSUs) *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded

• 401(k) plan *Interns initially excluded until they work 1,000 hours

• Parental leave *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded

• Flexible time off *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded