What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate, Molecular Biology position at Elegen?
Elegen is blazing a path towards a biology-based economy with a highly innovative approach to DNA synthesis that delivers an industry leading length of 7kb in 7 business days with a 99.999% per base accuracy. Our multidisciplinary team of best-in-class biologists, chemists, hardware, and software engineers apply cutting-edge technologies and methods to solve critical bottlenecks in synthetic biology workflows to help our customers in pharma, biotech, agbio, and biomanufacturing streamline their work and realize the full potential of programmable biology.
We are seeking a molecular biology Research Associate, passionate and creative in advancing DNA assembly technologies as part of our R&D group. As a part of our team, you will play a central role in designing and performing molecular biology experiments to identify the processes required for scalable production of long, perfect synthetic DNA. You will collaborate with automation, bioinformatics, and manufacturing groups to build protocols allowing for groundbreaking technologies in scalable DNA production.
This is a unique opportunity for a highly motivated, dedicated, and driven research associate looking to learn a variety of molecular biology techniques at a uniquely innovative, rapidly moving, high-impact start-up. In addition to gaining significant exposure to the full product development cycle, you will help us establish a strong culture of mutual respect, integrity, and collaboration while working alongside some of Silicon Valley's best scientists and engineers.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Independently execute and troubleshoot molecular biology projects to support the R&D team.
- Carry out experiments and gather data in a systematic manner with good laboratory practices.
- Prepare and clearly communicate experimental methodology and data summaries.
- Propose and implement improvements and optimizations for benchtop workflows.
- Develop analytical methods for QC of molecular biology protocol steps.
- Support writing of standard operating procedures and technical product documentation.
- Collaborate with automation, bioinformatics, process development, and production groups to develop and handoff projects.
Essential Qualifications and Experience:
- BS or MS biology or a related field, with 1 years of laboratory experience with automated liquid handlers preferred.
- Previous experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, cloning, and gel electrophoresis.
- Experience with DNA handling, quantification, and purification.
- Proficiency in data recording and analysis using Excel (or alternative program/programming language).
- Demonstrated eagerness to enhance one's scientific skills and knowledge by seeking deep understanding of biological processes.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Strong track record of working in a highly collaborative environment on multidisciplinary projects.
Preferred Qualifications and Experience:
- Familiarity with PCA.
- Extensive hands-on experience with troubleshooting PCR and cloning workflows.
- Previous experience with NGS workflows (including library preparation).
- Experience in design of experiments and statistical data analysis.
- Experience with automated liquid handling systems.
Salary and Benefits:
The annual base salary compensation for this role, if based in California is: $80,000 - $90,000. Compensation may be different in other locations. Final compensation also includes bonus, equity and benefits. Specific offer packages are determined by multiple factors, including candidate skill, experience, expertise, and location.
✓ Healthcare ✓ Dental ✓ Vision ✓ Learning Allowance
✓ 401K ✓ Flexible PTO ✓ Short Term Disability ✓ Fitness Allowance
✓ Long Term Disability ✓ Parental Leave Program ✓ Commuter Benefits
About The Company:
Founded and led by Dr. Matthew Hill and located in San Carlos, CA, Elegen is well-capitalized by top life science investors, including Andreessen Horowitz, 8VC, and KdT. The company is advised and staffed by leading biotechnology scientists and entrepreneurs, including Dr. Marc Unger, inventor of the Nanoflex™ valve, and former CSO of Fluidigm. Dr. Hill has a PhD from Stanford and a proven track record of advancing innovative technologies from invention to commercial success. Over eight years in his previous role as VP of R&D at a leading molecular diagnostics company, he co-invented and launched five precision molecular diagnostic products, including a best-in-class noninvasive prenatal test used by millions. These products earn more than $350 million per year in revenue and enabled an IPO.
Elegen is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Elegen provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic characteristics, or any other category protected by law. All applicants have rights under the following Federal Employment Laws:
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
- Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)
Salary : $80,000 - $90,000