Research Associate, DNA & Strain Construction

Asimov • Boston, MA

7d

About The Position

We are looking for a highly motivated Research Associate I to join our DNA & Strain Construction (DNASC) team as a full-time employee. In this role, you will support our high-throughput molecular biology pipeline, contributing to the efficient cloning, assembly, and sequencing of DNA constructs. You will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge molecular biology techniques, automation, and process optimization while working in a dynamic synthetic biology environment.
About the Role:
Perform high-throughput cloning workflows, including PCR, Gibson Assembly, and Golden Gate Assembly to construct plasmids.
Operate liquid handlers (e.g., Echo, Bravo, Hamilton STAR), run the MiSeq for NGS, and utilize other automation tools for NGS library preparation and molecular cloning.
Conduct PCR, Golden Gate or Gibson Assembly, plasmid purification, and sequencing prep to validate DNA constructs.
Maintain accurate sample tracking and documentation in LIMS to ensure data integrity and reproducibility.
Assist with large-scale plasmid preparations (LSPs) to support internal and external projects.
Collaborate with scientists and other RAs to troubleshoot workflows and improve efficiency.
Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and contribute to continuous process improvements.
This is a full-time position supporting ongoing DNASC production and development efforts.

Requirements

• B.S. in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field (recent graduates encouraged to apply).
• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning techniques (PCR, restriction digestion, ligation, transformation, and plasmid purification).
• Familiarity with DNA assembly methods (Golden Gate, Gibson) and bacterial culturing techniques.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced lab environment, following protocols, and maintaining detailed records.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work independently or as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with automated liquid handlers (Echo, Bravo, Hamilton STAR) or NGS workflows is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform high-throughput cloning workflows, including PCR, Gibson Assembly, and Golden Gate Assembly to construct plasmids.
• Operate liquid handlers (e.g., Echo, Bravo, Hamilton STAR), run the MiSeq for NGS, and utilize other automation tools for NGS library preparation and molecular cloning.
• Conduct PCR, Golden Gate or Gibson Assembly, plasmid purification, and sequencing prep to validate DNA constructs.
• Maintain accurate sample tracking and documentation in LIMS to ensure data integrity and reproducibility.
• Assist with large-scale plasmid preparations (LSPs) to support internal and external projects.
• Collaborate with scientists and other RAs to troubleshoot workflows and improve efficiency.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and contribute to continuous process improvements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees