Scientist - SynBio R&D

About the position

This role is 100% on-site at our South San Francisco Headquarters. The R&D team at Twist is searching for a curious, thoughtful, and driven molecular biologist with excellent lab hands to help us develop new products and applications in the Synthetic Biology (SynBio) space. You will use molecular biology to improve existing methods for gene synthesis as well as create entirely new ones. Leveraging our silicon-based, massively-parallel DNA synthesis platform, you will perform experiments for synthesis, assembly, cloning, scale-up, sequencing, and characterization of DNA.

Responsibilities

• Lead molecular biology research projects in DNA synthesis, assembly, cloning, scale up, sequencing, and characterization.
• Independently design and execute experiments and analyze experimental data.
• Move projects forward efficiently / manage time and resources effectively / prioritize tasks in accordance with the company’s goals.
• Document and communicate results clearly and succinctly.
• Discuss experimental results with other team members and stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively with a diverse group of scientists and bioinformaticians.
• Coordinate with internal Twist teams, including product management, manufacturing, and QC/QA, on cross-functional projects.
• Solicit technical input from others/participate in scientific discussions / come up with new ideas.
• Be helpful/collaborative / proactive.
• Stay up to date with new developments, companies, and technologies.
• Be the ultimate subject matter expert, and understand all aspects of your work as profoundly as possible, including details that are adjacent (as opposed to directly related) to your project/experiment.

Requirements

• Deep technical knowledge in molecular biology methods, with a focus on nucleic acids.
• Extensive experience in DNA synthesis, assembly, and manipulation methods.
• Broad experience with DNA cloning and the different methods for DNA amplification using cells or enzymes.
• A track record of successful and creative method development.
• Broad experience in bacterial cell culture and plasmid biology.
• Strong background in NGS library preparation methods, sequencing technologies, and data analysis.
• Proficient in bioinformatics and bioinformatics tools, including genome alignment, mapping, variant calling, and annotation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
• Independent, driven, and creative.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with Python, R, or equivalent programming languages.
• Experience with liquid-handling systems and automation.

Benefits

• Base salary range of $114,660—$154,097 USD.
• Eligible for bonus and equity.
• Generous benefits package.