[noodle]

is the startup interesting? having a "project of your own" might be nice, but it won't comfort you if that project ends up being a turd.

[juniorguy]

The startup seems interesting by far. They seem to have a cool custom-made system in place, but it won't be under my jurisdiction.

[nkassis]

yet... When I joined my current job I wasn't supposed to deal with the complex scientific tools but with time I showed interest and I skill enough such that I was able to get on to some of those projects. (I'm in the same boat as you, less than 5 years of full time experience)