Position Summary
GreenLight Biosciences is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Research Associate to help advance the company’s platform technology for mRNA therapeutics. The successful candidate will support R&D efforts within the company in the areas of platform and process development, sample generation, and product characterization. A strong background and independence in molecular biology is required. Organizational and communication skills, creative problem-solving, and flexibility are essential.
This is a six-month contract position. Due to physical distancing measures associated with GreenLight’s COVID-19 response plan, this position may require off-hours or shift work.
Responsibilities:
- Design, perform, and optimize enzymatic reactions with DNA & RNA substrates, including but not limited to PCR, molecular cloning, transcription, reverse transcription, and post-transcriptional modification.
- Perform routine microbiology tasks including bacterial transformation, plating, and culturing.
- Analyze DNA & RNA using state-of-the-art and standard techniques, including gel and capillary electrophoresis, liquid chromatography, immunoblotting, sequencing, spectrophotometry, etc.
- Purify DNA using standard techniques, including spin columns and solvent extraction.
- Purify RNA products using state-of-the-art chromatographic techniques.
- Work independently, and in collaboration with multidisciplinary project teams, as well as the Analytical Chemistry and Metabolic Engineering groups.
- Clearly communicate results and recommendations to colleagues, managers, and senior management, assisting in project decision-making.
- Maintain diligent and organized records.
Qualifications:
- B.S. or M.S. degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related discipline with at least 2 years of industrial experience or 4 years of academic experience.
- Experience performing, optimizing, and troubleshooting state-of-the-art molecular biology techniques is required.
- Previous experience using aseptic technique is required.
- Specific experience with single-stranded RNA, including synthesis, handling, and analysis, is preferable.
- Strong organization, communication, and interpersonal skills are required, with the ability to work independently and on a team.