Scientist (R & D Strain Engineering)

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. If you want to know about the requirements for this role, read on for all the relevant information. This range is provided by Aegis Worldwide. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience - talk with your recruiter to learn more. Base pay range $38.00/hr - $40.00/hr Direct message the job poster from Aegis Worldwide Confidential R D Scientist - Strain Engineering (3-6 Month Contract) Location: Chicago, IL (Mariana Crossing - 815 W Pershing Rd) Pay Rate: $38-$40/hr (W2) Duration: 3-6 Months (Contract only - no guarantee of full-time conversion) Client: Confidential biotech company innovating in sustainable protein and biomaterials About the Role: Our client, an innovative biotech company developing sustainable food and material technologies, is seeking a Scientist - R D, Strain Engineering to support a high-impact research initiative. This individual will contribute to a pharmaceutical-focused grant project supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The role involves hands-on strain engineering, molecular biology experimentation, and fungal genetics. This is an excellent opportunity to work on groundbreaking science in a fast-paced, startup-style environment. Key Responsibilities: Conduct molecular biology experiments to engineer fungal genomes (knockouts, knock-ins, gene expression modifications) Perform RNA sequencing, including RNA extraction, library preparation, and data analysis Utilize RT-PCR and qPCR for gene expression studies Construct and validate plasmids for genetic transformation Characterize modified strains through phenotypic and metabolic assays Support fermentation studies and small-scale process development Collaborate with senior scientists on experimental design and data analysis Maintain accurate documentation and present findings to the team Required Qualifications: PhD in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field OR Master's degree with at least 3 years of molecular biology lab experience Experience with strain engineering in microbial systems (yeast, bacteria, fungi) Strong working knowledge of RNA/DNA extraction and sequencing RT-PCR and qPCR expertise Familiarity with gene editing tools and fungal transformation Excellent documentation and scientific reporting skills Strong communication skills; able to present research in team settings Preferred Qualifications: Prior work in a yeast or fungal lab setting Experience with high-throughput screening or fermentation techniques Background in pharmaceutical or biotech research environments What's in it for You: Collaborate on a prestigious, grant-funded pharmaceutical research initiative Work in a mission-driven, forward-thinking biotech startup Gain exposure to novel biomaterial and protein engineering applications Use state-of-the-art lab equipment and contribute to future-facing innovations Contract Duration: 3-6 months, with the potential for extension No guarantee of full-time conversion; candidates must be comfortable with a contract-only role Background and drug screening required per Aegis policy Interview process includes 1-2 Zoom interviews and a potential onsite panel Apply now if interested! Seniority level Seniority levelAssociate Employment type Employment typeFull-time Job function Job functionScience and Engineering IndustriesFood and Beverage Services Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Aegis Worldwide by 2x Get notified about new Research And Development Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL Research And Development Scientist II, Glad Product and ProcessResearch And Development Scientist II, Product and ProcessResearch Specialist 2, Immunology and Adjuvant DevelopmentResearch Specialist 2, Immunology and Adjuvant DevelopmentReforming Process Engineer-Relocate to Saudi ArabiaSr Scientist, R D - Packaging Development (Sauces/Condiments/Cream Cheese)R D Engineer, Electrochemical Biosensing (Biohub Chicago)Sr Principal Scientist, R D - Product DevLead Research & Development Strategist (P2188)Adjunct Instructor - Cannabis Quality Control MethodsProcess Engineer (Advanced Manufacturing - Semiconductor Focus) Itasca, IL $90,000.00-$110,000.00 1 week ago R D Engineer, Robotics and Automation (Biohub Chicago) Chicago, IL $60,000.00-$93,500.00 1 month ago Chicago, IL $68,000.00-$88,000.00 3 months ago We're unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. J-18808-Ljbffr