Scientist I

Title: Scientist I
Location: Framingham, MA
Duration: 12 Months+ (1 Year extension)

Manager Notes:

• Start ASAP.
• Two year assignment with possibility to convert.
• Must have cloning exp. 0-3 years.
• PhD required (degree in or related to molecular bio, bio chem, micro bio, etc.)
• Day in the life: plasmid production, generate plasmids for pipelines, doing QC, in the future they will be automating the process so if they have automation exp that would be fantastic if not, okay, in lab 75% of day.
• Must Haves: Cloning Experience, Gibson assembly and Golden Gate assembly experience.
• Like to have: Automation experience (they will be moving into automation so it would be great if the person was familiar with that but if not, they can be trained)

Description:
The Cell Line Development Department at Client is seeking a highly motivated Molecular Biology Scientist to join a high-performing, collaborative team focused on optimizing CHO cell line development platforms through advanced molecular biology techniques and automation. Responsibilities will focus on improving process workflows, expression system components, and CLD methods used to generate recombinant CHO cell lines for production of protein biologics. This will include the design and generation of next generation vector topologies utilizing modern cloning strategies such as Gibson assembly and Golden Gate cloning. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in high-throughput molecular biology workflows and automated vector construction pipelines. Work will directly support development projects in Client's pipeline and will include frequent cross-functional interactions with colleagues in Client's global CMC sites (US, France).

Key Responsibilities:
Design and construct expression vectors using advanced molecular cloning techniques including Gibson assembly, Golden Gate cloning, restriction enzyme-based cloning, and site-directed mutagenesis
Develop, optimize, and implement automated workflows for high-throughput vector construction and DNA assembly on liquid handling platforms
Generate, validate, and bank vector constructs for expression of candidate biotherapeutic molecules in mammalian cell systems
Perform molecular characterization of cell lines and constructs using techniques such as ddPCR, Sanger sequencing, and restriction mapping
Support NGS library preparation for genomic and transcriptomic analysis of CHO cell lines
Optimize and troubleshoot molecular biology protocols to improve efficiency and reproducibility
Prepare technical reports and presentations to communicate progress and data

Basic Qualifications:
PhD (0-3 years) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or related discipline
Extensive hands-on experience with molecular cloning techniques including Gibson assembly, Golden Gate cloning, restriction cloning, and PCR-based methods
Demonstrated expertise in DNA construct design, vector engineering, and plasmid preparation
Experience with genetic characterization methods such as ddPCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing analysis
Proficiency in designing and optimizing molecular biology workflows for automation on liquid handling platforms (Hamilton, Tecan, or similar)
Strong technical background in molecular biology with excellent attention to detail and troubleshooting skills
Self-motivated with excellent organization, time-management, and communication skills
Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks and documentation of all experimental procedures
Demonstrated ability to work as member of a team and adhere to timelines

Preferred Qualifications:
Mammalian cell culture experience in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting, particularly with CHO cells
Experience with high-throughput screening and clone selection strategies
Familiarity with bioinformatic tools for DNA sequence analysis, primer design, and in silico cloning (Snapgene, Geneious, Benchling, Primer3 or similar)
Knowledge of CHO cell line development processes and recombinant protein expression
Experience using Oxford Nanopore Technologies in NGS workflows
Basic programming skills in R or Python for data analysis and visualization
Experience with Bash/command line scripting for bioinformatics workflows and data processing
Experience with automated colony picking and clone tracking systems
Flexibility to adjust to a fast-paced, goal-oriented environment and willingness to expand and broaden skillset

As a healthcare company and a vaccine manufacturer, Client has an important responsibility to protect individual and public health. All US based roles require individuals to be fully vaccinated aProductst COVID-19 as part of your job responsibilities.

According to the CDC, an individual is considered to be fully vaccinated fourteen (14) days after receiving
(a) the second dose of the Client or Client vaccine, or (b) the single dose of the Pharmaceutical vaccine.
Fully vaccinated, for new Client employees, is to be fully vaccinated 14 DAYS PRIOR TO START DATE.

#GD-SA
#LI-SA
PDN

At Client diversity and inclusion is foundational to how we operate and embedded in our Core Values. We recognize to truly tap into the richness diversity brings we must lead with inclusion and have a workplace where those differences can thrive and be leveraged to empower the lives of our colleagues, patients and customers. We respect and celebrate the diversity of our people, their backgrounds and experiences and provide equal opportunity for all.