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Biochemistry Project Leader, Modified Oligonucleotides

Permanent contract
Le Kremlin-Bicêtre
Salary: Not specified
No remote work

DNA Script
DNA Script

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Job description

DNA Script

DNA Script is a leading company in manufacturing de novo synthetic nucleic acids using enzymatic DNA synthesis (EDS) technology. The company aims at accelerating innovation in life science and technology through the decentralization of rapid, on demand and high-quality DNA synthesis. DNA Script's approach leverages nature's billions of years of evolution in synthesizing DNA to set a new standard for customizing nucleic acid synthesis thus accelerating discovery in genetics, genomics, and synthetic biology. Discovery disciplines with profound impacts upon humanity such as biopharma, translational genetics and even molecular information storage all start with synthetic DNA. The company has recently initiated the commercialization of its first EDS powered platform, the SYNTAX system.

To date, DNA Script has raised over $315M of financing, with leading investors such as Coatue Management, Fidelity Management and Research, Catalio Capital Management, Casdin Capital, LSP, Bpifrance Large Ventures, Danaher, Illumina Ventures, Agilent, Merck Ventures, Sofinnova Partners, Kurma Partners, T Rowe Price, Baillie Gifford and Eurazeo.

DNA Script also partners on technology and product development with leading organizations such as DARPA, IARPA, Moderna Therapeutics, GE Research, Illumina, the Broad Institute, Harvard University, Institut Pasteur and the French Department of Defense.

DNA Script has its research and manufacturing facilities headquartered in Paris, France, and is in the process of expanding its commercial and development teams in South San Francisco.

Opportunity and Challenges :

We are looking to assemble a team of best-in-class, innovative and passionately eager people. We want to gather their talents and skills to achieve one goal: unlock the power of “DNA-write.” We offer the opportunity of joining a dynamic, international, and highly skilled team in a pioneering startup. Our DNA On Demand platform not only has the potential to change the way the world makes and uses synthetic DNA, but also to accelerate the rate of discovery by delivering upon the promise of same-day results.

This is an opportunity to join a rapidly growing company and to have a large impact on developing a technology that will have far-reaching impacts across biological sciences.

The Role

Within DNAScript, the synthesis platform has several missions

  • Synthesis of oligonucleotides for internal or external partners
  • Assessment of new protocol performances and guarantee of process robustness
  • Optimization of post synthesis processes (PSP)
  • Characterization of synthetized oligonucleotides

Now that the synthesis of standard oligonucleotides is available on Syntax, the company is working on developing a larger range of products to offer to its clients. Single and dual label probes are the first ones among many.

We are looking for a Modified oligonucleotides, project leader, in biochemistry to work on improving oligonucleotide labelling process as well as increasing the menu of oligonucleotide modifications compatible with our Syntax platform.

Your project will be to develop single and dual label probes and other products involving custom nucleotides. This position will require understanding of:

  • the chemistry or biochemistry (enzymatic reactions) needed to modify the oligonucleotides
  • the synthesis and post synthesis processes, as well as their characterization
  • the applications in which those custom oligonucleotides will be used

Main Responsibilities

  • Oversee and lead R&D experiments related to single or dual probe labelling, and all modified nucleotides; that is manage the team and project, conduct experiments, gather and interpret results from several sources (eg: qPCR results, LC-MS and absorbances and fluorescence spectra), draw conclusions and recommend future experiments to achieve project goals
  • Ensure traceability, reliability and consolidation of data (from synthesis to various analytical/characterization methods)
  • Ensure synthesis of modified oligonucleotides for internal and external collaborations and follow-up on partner’s feedback
  • Support generation of Work Instructions, SOPs and reports for internal tracking, development processes and technology transfer to the Product Development Team
  • Manage the transfer of new protocols from Paris to our US subsidiary, ensure alignment of protocols and processes, and coordinate implementation on Syntax with Product development
  • Keep up with scientific literature to challenge processes with innovative ideas
  • Regularly present and report across all levels of the company.
  • Actively contribute to critical company milestones, with a willingness to work outside immediate area of expertise when required.

Experience:

  • Master, Engineering degree or PhD in the field of molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, biotechnology
  • At least 5 years of experience as project manager/team leader in R&D, in an international environment
  • Strong chemistry and biochemistry background
  • Experience in nucleic acid synthesis
  • Fluent in English and knowledgeable in French
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, and systematic troubleshooting skills.
  • Down-to-earth mindset focused on finding simple solutions to complex problems.
  • Rigorous with a high attention to details.
  • Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Highly motivated and proactive

Miscellaneous

  • Permanent position
  • Job located in Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, France
  • Start date: As soon as possible.

Recruitment Process

  • Initial screening with the hiring manager
  • Day interview at the office (or remote) with the manager, cofounders, HR and the rest of the team
  • Reference Checks
  • Timing: 2-3 weeks

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