Senior Research Support Associate

Manufacture of synthetic DNA & RNA compounds.

Assist with experiments supporting research in the synthesis of single-cell-barcoded beads, quality control of the synthesized beads, and performing experiments that include basic molecular biology techniques to sequencing experiments to validate and troubleshoot synthesis of DNA oligos to beads.

Provide comprehensive technical support for scientists in the company; executing and optimizing ongoing experiments, analyzing results and designing follow-up experiments based on the results, and presenting findings and insights at group meetings.

Evaluating research methods, procedures and techniques based on established objectives, conceiving and designing basic experimental protocols to ensure project completion in a timely fashion; recording and organizing data generated from the experiments in clear, concise, and assessable format; perform basic coding and statistical analyses; processing of in-vitro and in-vivo RNA for preparation of RNA-seq libraries for sequencing in Illumina platforms (Mi-Seq including Hi-seq and Next-seq).

Experienced in techniques including but not limited to: running agarose gel, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, reverse transcription, quantitative PCR, fluorescent microscopy, flow cytometry; maintaining inventories of lab stocks.

Essential Job Functions

The major tasks and duties of the job include but are not limited to:

• Manufacture of synthetic DNA & RNA compounds.
• Follows the current processes for manufacturing and storage methods.
• Adheres to current hazardous material regulations and follows hazardous material spill response protocols.
• Gathers and may interpret and analyze analytical data.
• Ensures materials are prepared in a timely fashion.
• Changes and dispenses materials for production, as necessary.
• Maintains accurate and detailed product, process, instrument and training records.
• Adheres to all departmental protocols, rules, contamination controls, and safety procedures and understands the requirements of ISO 9001:2008.
• Perform Oligonucleotide Synthesis using Expedites or any other synthesizers.
• Perform HPLC purification, desalting, quantification, and QC sampling of oligonucleotides.
• Operate lab equipment involved in purification process including monitoring weight and reagent levels.
• Perform Hand-Chemistry reaction for NHS Ester labeled Oligonucleotide.
• Follow protocols for research projects, and compile results of standard and nonstandard tests.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOP) of standard products; ensure that the testing results are within standard operating procedures (SOP) and report any deviations to Senior Chemists.
• Assist Senior Chemists.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunction and equipment maintenance.
• Maintain timely documentation of work.
• Evaluate data & prepare technical reports.
• Perform general lab maintenance as necessary.
• Demonstrates behavior consistent with ChemGenes’ Core Values.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

Preparation, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• B.S. degree in Biochemistry, Biology or related field; 0–2 years related industry experience.
• Ability to use all automated laboratory equipment.
• Computer literacy and experience with Laboratory Information Systems.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, along with good mathematical skills.
• Ability to follow company SOPs and perform complex laboratory protocols successfully.
• Good record keeping and documentation of experiments and processes.
• Understands and applies basic laboratory safety instructions, reagent handling precautions, and disposal of chemical waste according to local environmental regulations.
• Must be able to work in a team atmosphere, have experience in aseptic techniques, and have a positive attitude toward the work environment.

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

The work will be performed in the ChemGenes’ corporate office which requires the ability to stand, walk, sit, push, pull, reach, carry, lift, grasp, squat or stoop; bend and twist the body while performing essential duties; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, talk or hear. The employee must have the ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.