Associate Quality Scientist; DNA Sequencing Analyst

Associate Quality Scientist - DNA Sequencing Analyst

This position will contribute to Addgene’s mission to accelerate research and discovery by improving access to useful research materials and information through ensuring only the highest quality materials are distributed to scientists. The Associate Quality Scientist will help the Quality team grow Addgene’s catalogue of items available for customers to order while sustaining our high quality of materials offered.

Position reports to:
Sr. Manager, Quality

Approximate start date: ASAP

Salary: $65,000 - 70,000 annually + benefits (see below)

Location & policy on remote work:
This is a hybrid position, with Wednesdays required onsite in our Watertown, Massachusetts Headquarters, and preference given to candidates able to be onsite at least 2 days a week. Our beautiful office space has free, ample parking with a complimentary shuttle from Harvard Square and is on multiple bus lines, with the cost of public transit covered by Addgene for those onsite at least twice a week.

In this position, you will support Addgene’s mission to deliver only the highest quality materials to scientists around the world. The Associate Quality Scientist focuses on executing established QC workflows supported by QC Team members. They will learn and apply standard operating procedures for sequence analysis, develop proficiency across core QC tasks, and communicate routinely with depositing laboratories.

Perform, document, and report quality control (QC) analysis of plasmid and viral samples following existing standard procedures. QC analysis includes verifying sample functionality through DNA sequence analysis of Illumina and Nanopore next generation sequencing data, as well as diagnostic restriction enzyme digests.

• Handle routine depositor communications independently; escape non-routine issues with relevant context and a proposed resolution
• Assist with NGS-related bioinformatic processes including post-run data processing and uploading of sequencing results.
• Update cloning information for plasmids based on sequencing results.
• Perform additional Quality team duties for specialized sample analyses, internal team processes, and external team communications.
• Actively participate in team meetings and contribute to team goals and best practices

• BA/BS in Biology or other life science required; MS preferred.
• Experience with standard molecular biology practices including sequence analysis, cloning, bacterial transformations, DNA preparation, and digests
• Familiarity with reading scientific research articles
• Experience with next-generation sequencing analysis using bioinformatic software a plus
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to follow written procedures accurately and consistently
• Able to manage multiple tasks efficiently
• Self-motivated, proactive with desire for continuous improvement
• Must be able to communicate effectively in English; strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills and ability to work closely with scientists required
• Familiarity with general computer software, including sequence analysis software, Google Workspace, and MS Office

At Addgene, we prioritize our people with comprehensive benefits that support both your work and your life.

• 85% company-paid healthcare premiums including dental (extending to family members) and 100% company-paid deductible
• Life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance.
• 22 days of PTO on top of our winter break closure and company holidays.
• A 403(b) retirement account with a company match of 4% after 2 years of employment.
• Annual professional development stipend
• Annual lifestyle stipend
• Fully paid public transportation for employees who work onsite four or more days per week.
• Onsite yoga classes & wellness reimbursement
• Pet insurance
• Annual financial planning one-on-ones with our plan administrator

Addgene is a self-sustaining, thriving nonprofit life sciences organization that was created to help scientists share DNA-based research materials called plasmids. Our mission is to accelerate research and discovery by…