Senior Scientist, Molecular Biology

This is an opportunity to join a growing company at an early stage and to have an impact on the development of its products, markets, processes, people, and culture.

We are seeking an intensely passionate and creative molecular biologist to develop our synthetic DNA production platform to reduce cost and support key verticals in mRNA vaccine manufacturing, cell and gene therapy, and synthetic biology. This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a scientist looking to push the boundaries of DNA synthesis at a uniquely innovative, rapidly moving, high impact start-up. In addition to developing novel DNA synthesis and plasmid assembly methods, 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:

• Drive the development of high throughput gene synthesis protocols from early concept through validation and commercialization stages.
• Design and execute hypothesis-driven, systematic experimental plans and interpret data using statistical analysis tools.
• Develop analytical methodologies to aid product development and work closely with bioinformatics to develop sequencing-based QC techniques.
• Support the transfer of molecular biology protocols to production.
• Develop protocols into reproducible standard operating procedures suitable for commercial release and support product documentation.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, synthetic biology or a related field and 2+ years of industrial experience.
• Proficiency in fundamental molecular biology techniques such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), gel electrophoresis, cloning, and DNA sequencing.
• Experience with synthetic biology approaches including DNA synthesis (e.g. Polymerase cycling assembly) and plasmid assembly techniques (e.g. Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate Assembly).
• Ability to critically analyze experimental results, interpret data, and draw meaningful conclusions. This includes statistical analysis and data visualization using R, Excel, Python or similar.
• Proficiency in managing complex research projects, coordinating experiments, and meeting project deadlines. This may involve supervising research assistants or collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to learn new techniques, adapt to emerging technologies, and apply innovative approaches to problem-solving in molecular biology.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to clearly and concisely present data to a wide range of stakeholders with varying levels of domain knowledge.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience:

• Strong understanding of NGS methods, library preparation and data interpretation.
• Competence in using bioinformatics tools and software for sequence analysis, primer design, and data interpretation. This includes understanding sequence alignments, genome editing tools, and analysis of next-generation sequencing data.
• Working knowledge of methods for de novo gene synthesis, starting at oligo synthesis
• Previous experience with workflow automation using liquid handling systems.
• Expertise in PCR: Primer design (Tm, primer dimer minimization, off-target minimization), effect of sequence complexity (motifs and mitigations)

Salary and Benefits:

The annual base salary compensation for this role, if based in California is: $135,000 - $165,000. 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