Molecular Biology and DNA Production Associate

Position Summary:

The Associate will support Discovery Protein Science by carrying out established molecular-biology, cloning, DNA-production, and sequencing workflows in a collaborative laboratory environment. The role will help project teams produce high-quality DNA reagents, including plasmid DNA, linear expression cassettes (LECs), and sequence-verified constructs. The individual will follow established procedures, maintain accurate records in internal systems, and contribute to routine laboratory operations under appropriate guidance.

• Execute DNA-production workflows, including Maxipreps, Gigapreps, and 96-well plasmid DNA minipreps using automation equipment.
• Quantify DNA using 96-well instrumentation, such as Nano Drop and Lunatic.
• Perform PCR to generate LECs for cell-free expression and other project-supported workflows.
• Conduct molecular-cloning activities, including ligation, transformation, colony picking, minipreps, and work with multiple
  
  E. coli strains.
• Support high-throughput sequencing workflows, including initial sequencing and sublot sequence reverification.
• Document experimental procedures, observations, and results accurately in internal LIMS and electronic laboratory systems.
• Maintain laboratory readiness through media preparation, reagent and consumable inventory management, kit and restriction-enzyme tracking, and liquid-nitrogen tank refilling.
• Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional partners to meet project timelines and shifting research priorities.
• Follow all applicable laboratory safety, sterile-technique, and operational-compliance requirements.

• An associate or bachelors degree in biology, biotechnology, chemistry, or a related scientific discipline is preferred.
• Up to two years of laboratory, academic laboratory, internship, or related technical experience; relevant coursework or training may be considered.
• Careful attention to detail and ability to follow written laboratory procedures accurately and consistently.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

• Experience in plasmid preparation, PCR, bacterial transformation, or related molecular-biology workflows.
• Familiarity with liquid-handling automation equipment, such as Viaflow, Hamilton, or comparable systems.
• Exposure to laboratory-information-management systems or electronic laboratory notebooks is a plus.
• Awareness of sequencing workflows and sequence-verification concepts is a plus.
• Experience or interest in supporting laboratory inventory, reagent preparation, and routine equipment upkeep.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills in a fast-paced research environment.

• Foundational Molecular Biology Skills
• Basic laboratory training or experience with PCR, DNA purification, plasmid preparation, or molecular cloning.
• Willingness to learn bacterial transformation, colony picking, and miniprep processes using established procedures.
• Accurate Laboratory Execution
• Ability to perform routine DNA-preparation and DNA-quantification tasks accurately after training.
• Comfort using pipettes and basic laboratory equipment; experience with multichannel pipettes or automated tools is a plus.
• Ability to support sequencing submission and sample-tracking activities after training.
• Attention to Detail and Teamwork
• Ability to maintain accurate records and enter information into internal laboratory systems after training.
• Ability to follow protocols, manage assigned tasks, and ask for guidance or elevate issues when needed.
• Collaborative communication with scientists, operations staff, and team members.

• Perform maxi-, giga-, and 96-well plasmid DNA preparations.
• Prepare media and reagents; monitor inventories of enzymes, kits, and consumables.
• Quantify DNA using Nano Drop, Lunatic, or equivalent 96-well instrumentation.
• Generate LECs by PCR for cell-free expression.
• Update sample and workflow information in internal LIMS systems.
• Conduct ligation, transformation, colony picking, miniprep, and sequence-verification workflows.
• Support high-throughput sequencing, including initial sequencing and sublot reverification.
• Work safely and maintain a clean, organized laboratory environment.