R&D Engineer, Molecular Biology
San Francisco, CA
Our client is drastically lowering the cost of DNA synthesis through AI. We’re looking for an experienced molecular biologist excited to push the boundaries of enzymatic gene synthesis methods. You’ll play a key role in developing next-generation DNA synthesis to support protein engineering across a wide variety of industries on the way to enabling truly generative protein design.
Key Responsibilities:
- The design, validation, and implementation of novel gene synthesis strategies to unlock the next 2 orders of magnitude in cost reduction of DNA Synthesis.
- Develop efficient high-throughput molecular biology processes for manufacturing gene synthesis products in a high-throughput MFG lab including operation of liquid handling robotics, bioanalyzers, and Next Gen sequencers.
- Work with AI/ML colleagues to develop end-to-end gene synthesis design and analysis workflows and utilize learnings to continually improve processes and strategies.
- Maintain detailed and accurate documentation, author reports, develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), and help to build out a highly organized manufacturing laboratory.
- Develop new processes and strategies to incorporate novel customer needs into product offerings.
Required Qualifications:
- PhD with 1-3 years of industry experience or comparable (MS with 4-6 years, BS with 6-8 years) with a focus on molecular biology, genetic engineering, or protein engineering.
- Experience with product prototyping and optimization involving a strong command of molecular biology, chemistry or biochemistry.
- Experience taking research programs and deploying into process development or manufacturing setting.
- Experience with gene synthesis strategies, DNA modifying enzymes, or modified nucleic acid chemistries.
- Minimum 2-4 years of hands-on molecular biology experience.
Desirable Skills:
- Proven track record of working with automation and/or software engineers to bring processes to market.
- Experience with novel nucleases, ligases, polymerases, and other DNA-modifying enzymes.
- Strong knowledge of viral genetics and/or replication mechanisms.
- Basic proficiency with Python.
