Associate Scientist I

Summary:The Associate Scientist will work with and support scientists in the Biologics research and development team. The work will focus on designing, validating, characterizing, and conducting a wide range of microbial and bacterial assays to support Lumen's therapeutic objectives. The candidate will play a key role in microbiology, molecular biology, and microscopy tasks, such as immunofluorescent microscopy, culturing BSL-2 microorganisms, and performing tissue-culture models of bacterial infection. Experience with bioinformatics tools, particularly Biopython, would be a plus.The individual is also expected to independently perform and learn new laboratory techniques, use specialized laboratory instruments, perform delicate manual procedures, follow and apply standard laboratory protocols and procedures, record, analyze, and report results, and provide reliable, independent, and versatile support to biotechnology research.The position requires strong organizational skills and meticulous laboratory record keeping. Effective communication skills are crucial in coordinating with Lumen’s research and production scientists, providing status updates, and raising quality or troubleshooting issues as they may arise.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:The major tasks for this position are as follows:Development and optimization of microbial and bacterial assays to assess therapeutic candidates.Performing tissue-culture models of bacterial infection and working with BSL-2 microorganisms.Screening large sets of molecules across various microbial panels using dPCR, immunofluorescence-based microscopy, and MIC assays.Following established protocols for a wide range of microbiology, molecular biology, and protein biochemistry assays.Developing and optimizing new protocols as needed.Handling, tracking, and safely managing BSL-2 materials.Integrating new tools and techniques to expand assay capabilities.Utilizing bioinformatics tools, particularly Biopython, for sequence analysis and data interpretation is preferred but not required.All lab staff are expected to dedicate 10% of their time to supporting lab operations (maintenance, clean-up, etc.).*This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of duties, activities, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.Desired Qualifications & Requirements:BA/BS degree in microbiology, cell biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related field of study with 2-5 years’ laboratory experience.MS/MSc degree in microbiology, cell biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related field of study with 0-2 years’ laboratory experience.Successful candidate will have the following attributes:Proficient in handling and tracking BSL-2 microorganisms.Skilled in microbial and bacterial assay development, optimization, and validation.Strong background in molecular biology, including expertise in DNA isolation, qPCR or dPCR.Competence in tissue culture growth of mammalian cells.Knowledgeable in immunofluorescence microscopy.Experience with bioinformatics tools, particularly Biopython, is a bonus but not required.Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.Engage with members of the team in experimental design, troubleshooting, data analysis, and data interpretation.Self-starter, able to contribute effectively in a fast-changing environment.The ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented environment.High integrity and ethics.Commitment to quality and timely delivery of results.Respect laboratory safety policies and practices.Physical Requirements:Sit for extended periods of time (2 or more hours).The position also requires standing on your feet for extended periods of time.Occasionally lift or carry up to 50 lbs. with assistance.Perform delicate manual procedures in the laboratory.This is a full-time position with a salary range of $80,000 to $85,000 + stock bonus. The base salary range represents the anticipated low and high end of the salary range for this position. Individual placement within a salary range will vary based upon factors including but not limited to a candidate’s skillset, experience, knowledge, education, and performance.

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