What are the responsibilities and job description for the Synthetic Biology Scientist I position at Terrain Biosciences?
About us: We are a seed-stage biotechnology company focused on advancing the field of synthetic biology by providing RNA of outstanding quality at extraordinary turnaround times. As we grow, we are looking for a Synthetic Biology Scientist I to join us with a diverse skill set in standard molecular biology, process development, and project management who can help us delight customers while building and improving internal processes.
About the role: We are looking for a candidate with excellent plasmid design and assembly skills who is excited about working with cutting-edge synthetic biology technology in a high-impact startup. The ideal candidate will help us design, build and evaluate our most challenging DNA and RNA constructs.
Job Responsibility:
- Design and order DNA fragments to generate complex plasmid constructs.
- Perform, and trouble shoot Gibson and Golden Gate assembly of DNA constructs, and troubleshoot particularly challenging sequences.
- Optimize and troubleshoot standard lab processes, including: RNA biology & chemistry, capillary gel electrophoresis, ELISA, qPCR, IVT, Plasmid Midipreps, bacterial transformation.
- Collaborate with R&D leadership to develop and perform advanced quality control and analysis assays on RNA.
- Utilize Oxford Nanopore Sequencing to analyze plasmid assemblies .
- Perform Standard Mammalian Tissue Culture processes (adherent BSL2 cell lines).
- Develop and perform in-vivo assays to evaluate mRNA attributes.
- Collaborate with our AI development team.
- Work with other scientists in our R&D, Data, and Operations groups.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
Education Requirements
- Recent PhD graduate with experience in molecular biology or synthetic biology, or a related discipline.
Work Experience
- Hands-on experience with plasmid design, assembly, and cloning. With the ability to troubleshoot challenging constructs.
- Proficiency in standard molecular biology and mammalian cell culture techniques.
Preferred Qualifications
- Analyze ONT plasmid-seq data and apply minor bioinformatics skills for sequence validation.
- Strong data organization and management skills.
- Passion for biotech startups and a willingness to take initiative in a dynamic environment.
- Inclination toward optimizing lab processes using automation or scripting tools.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a standard Wetlab environment, including prolonged periods of standing and moving lab supplies up to 30lbs.