Lab Automation Scientist

Lab Automation Scientist
• Strain Engineering

Reports to:

Senior Scientist, Strain Engineering

Salary Range: $80-95k

Lab Automation Scientist will support and advance the company’s R&D efforts by developing, operating, and maintaining laboratory automation platforms and robotic systems. This hybrid role blends hands‑on laboratory work with automation development, workflow optimization, and cross‑functional collaboration to enable high‑throughput genetic, molecular, and biopharmaceutical research.

This individual will work closely with scientists and stakeholders to adapt new technologies to automated platforms, troubleshoot systems, and contribute broadly to discovery, development, and manufacturing initiatives. This position is a full‑time, salaried position. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

• Operate, maintain, and optimize standard liquid handlers and customized robotic systems (e.g., robotic arms, centrifuges, plate readers).
• Work directly with scientists to adapt and automate new laboratory workflows and technologies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and operational issues related to automation systems.
• Perform basic programming, scripting, or configuration for automation platforms and equipment.
• Ensure proper documentation, testing, and validation of system changes prior to and after implementation.
• Support sample preparation and analysis as part of automated and semi‑automated workflows.
• Work within project timelines while interfacing with multiple R&D teams.
• Proactively identify technical challenges and develop effective solutions.
• Communicate project status, risks, and outcomes clearly and in a timely manner.
• Assist with evaluation of third‑party automation tools, software, and hardware as needed.
• Train and support team members in the operation and maintenance of automation systems.

• BS or MS in Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• 2–5 years of relevant laboratory and/or automation experience, preferably in industrial biotech or pharmaceutical R&D,
• Hands‑on experience with laboratory automation equipment (e.g., liquid handlers, robotic platforms, scheduling software) to enable rapid, automated, and parallel processing of large sample sets (e.g. 96‑well formats)
• Experience with basic molecular biology and/or biochemistry techniques such as PCR, nucleic acid purification, cell culture, ELISA, protein purification.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and documentation skills.
• Proactively takes initiative to identify, research and solve complex technical problems and issues; communicates status in a timely manner
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, particularly Excel.

• Experience in drug development, biologics, or protein expression environments.
• Familiarity with data analysis from automated platforms and instrumentation.

The Company offers competitive benefits including medical, dental, vision, Long term disability and life insurance, as well as 401(k) match, Stock Options, Bonus, and Paid Time Off.

• All new hires are required to go through a background and reference check
• Primrose Bio, Inc.is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets employer
• Must be legally authorized to work in the US without sponsorship
• Primrose Bio, Inc. celebrates the diversity of life and welcomes all individuals to apply

Founded in 2023 following the merger of Pelican Technology Holdings (formerly Pfenex) and Primordial Genetics, Primrose Bio specializes in developing high‑efficiency production systems for innovative and complex biologics. Our technical foundation lies in advanced protein expression and enzyme engineering, and we deploy these technologies in commercially proven platforms. Our advanced manufacturing technologies derisk the path to success for the development of novel therapies.

We believe in a creative and nurturing environment that allows for constructive and productive interaction between talented people. Good people in a good company will ultimately create superior products that will make a positive contribution to our society and to the health of the planet. Primrose Bio is an equal opportunity employer. We offer our employees a comprehensive benefit package including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Paid Time Off, stock options and a dynamic start‑up biotech environment with many opportunities for growth.

Individuals seeking employment at Primrose Bio are considered without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Primrose Bio is located in the heart of Sorrento Valley in San Diego CA. The company has state‑of‑the‑art laboratory and office space.