Production Scientist - Mellon College of Science - Helix Foundry

Carnegie Mellon University•Pittsburgh, PA

38d

About The Position

The Production Scientist works in the Helix Foundry, a shared research laboratory within Carnegie Mellon University’s Mellon College of Science. The Foundry supports university researchers and external collaborators by providing oligonucleotide design, synthesis, purification, quality control, and distribution, including antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and siRNAs. The role supports daily laboratory operations and high-throughput oligonucleotide and ASO synthesis services. The Production Scientist operates and maintains specialized instrumentation for synthesis, purification, analytical characterization, and sample preparation. The position coordinates production requests, monitors project progress, maintains laboratory records and supplies, supports quality control and safety compliance, and contributes to efficient facility operations. The role also supports workflow and technology improvements as the Foundry expands, with potential opportunities for growth into leadership positions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related scientific field.
At least three years of laboratory experience in molecular biology, nucleic acid chemistry, analytical chemistry, or a related research environment.
Experience with oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and nucleic acid analytical methods.
Demonstrated organizational, analytical, problem-solving, communication, and record-keeping skills.
Ability to interact with collaborators and clients with varying levels of technical knowledge of nucleic acid synthesis.
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Comparable knowledge demonstrated through a combination of education and proven experience may be considered.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D.
Experience operating and maintaining analytical instrumentation such as HPLC/FPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis spectrophotometers, or comparable laboratory equipment.
Experience working in a shared laboratory, core facility, or laboratory management environment.

Responsibilities

Operate automated oligonucleotide synthesizers to produce antisense oligonucleotides according to established protocols.
Perform post-synthetic processing, purification, quality control, concentration, lyophilization, and storage of synthesized ASOs.
Operate and maintain preparative chromatography systems, LC-MS instrumentation, spectrophotometers, lyophilizers, and other production and analysis equipment.
Coordinate ASO production requests, monitor project progress, communicate timelines, and maintain records of laboratory activities and customer orders.
Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures for laboratory instrumentation and workflows.
Train, supervise, and support students, staff, and researchers in safe and effective equipment use and laboratory procedures.
Manage core facility operations, including instrument scheduling, user access, service contracts, and uptime planning.
Monitor quality control procedures to ensure ASOs meet established identity, purity, and documentation standards.
Order laboratory supplies, reagents, consumables, and specialized chemicals; maintain inventory and coordinate equipment service and repairs.
Maintain purchasing documentation, equipment maintenance logs, inventory records, chemical inventories, and waste disposal documentation.
Ensure compliance with university laboratory safety policies, chemical hygiene plans, hazardous waste procedures, and other applicable environmental health and safety requirements.
Assist with laboratory budgeting by monitoring reagent usage, equipment maintenance needs, and operational expenses.
Collaborate with faculty and researchers to evaluate workflows, troubleshoot technical challenges, and improve laboratory efficiency.
Develop and maintain laboratory information management systems or other electronic systems for tracking ASO requests, production status, inventory, and sample distribution.
Assist with implementation and evaluation of new instrumentation, laboratory methods, ASO synthesis technologies, chemistries, and workflows.
Perform related duties as assigned.