Automation Scientist- Complex in vitro Systems (CiS) Laboratory

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A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 45 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

We are looking for a versatile Scientist to work within the Complex in vitro Systems (CiS) Laboratory to design, develop, and characterize complex in vitro models (CIVM) to support the larger Development Sciences, Research, and Translational Medicine departments of Genentech. In particular, the individual will be responsible for providing scientific and technical expertise to automate scaling, processing, and assays using CIVMs. Currently the CIVMs include 3D multicellular models consisting of organoids and spheroids with aspiration to automate microfluidic organ-on-chip technologies. This laboratory-based role will focus on employing newly installed automation tools to support both discovery and preclinical development portfolios broadly through multiple contexts of use, including safety, disposition, biomarker development, and pharmacodynamic responses.

The Opportunity:

To achieve this, the Scientist will be an integral part of the CiS team that establishes, qualifies, and implements innovative, state-of-the-art technologies / platforms including:

• Automated organoid culture and liquid handling systems

• Complex genomic and transcriptomic profiling

• Live-cell and high-content imaging for phenotypic screening

• 3D microphysiological systems (MPS, e.g. organ-on-a-chip) and peripheral assemblies

This position is laboratory-based and will include: sitting or standing for extended periods, performing repetitive tasks such as cell culture, pipetting and labeling tubes, performing techniques involving a high degree of manual dexterity and physical activity, flexibility as to work schedule (i.e. may need variation in hours worked and timing of those hours which may include weekend/holiday work as needed only), work with potentially hazardous materials including, but not limited to chemotherapeutics, biological hazards, and human primary cells, strong skills in cell- and molecular biology and direct experience with CIVMs are required.

Who You Are:

The ideal candidate will design, develop, operate, and maintain automated systems for complex cell culture and assay process scale up. The successful candidate will work closely with other automation specialists and biologists at Genentech to ensure regular maintenance of instrumentation and perform quality control of automated systems and equipment. They will also collaborate with a team of external vendors, data engineers, and software developers to implement automation best practices and proper process metadata tracking/LIMS integration. Importantly, the candidate will have direct experience translating lab experiments developed by individual scientists into automation-ready protocols that can run repeatedly at scale.

Successful candidates will possess the following skills/attributes:

• PhD in biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomaterials, immunology, pharmacology, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field is required. Candidates must have experience in either academia, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or CRO industry related to the automation and/or implementation of CIVMs.

• Hands on experience with at least several cellular assays (cell viability, flow cytometry, gene expression analysis, high content screening, 3D imaging analysis, biomarker quantification, transepithelial electrical resistance, etc.) is required

• Hands on experience with primary cell cultures in 3D is required (could be organoids, layered cultures, or spheroid work)

• Track record of translating hands-on cell culture work into automated protocols

• Experience operating, programming, and integrating automation instrumentation and peripherals including but not limited to automated incubators, liquid handling platforms (e.g. Biomek, Hamilton Star, BioTek washers), centrifuges, cell counters, and imagers

• Experience with automation scheduling software (e.g. GreenButtonGo, Thermo Momentum, HiRes Cellario, etc.) is highly preferred

• Experience with integrating instrument and process QC data with LIMS tools

• Experience working independently or with external vendors and service providers to make system modifications and improvements (e.g. hardware or software, new driver requests, etc.), troubleshoot, coordinate PM/repair visits, whenever necessary

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, interact professionally and present data to all levels of staff and external partners is required

• Knowledge of databases, cloud computing, and programming languages such as Python/C#/R is a plus

Relocation benefits are available for this job posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of South San Francisco, California is $138,500-$257,100 . Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants .