The role

DNA Script is looking for a dynamic and talented individual to join the System Integration team, in charge of the development of new DNA synthesis process and instrumentation.
Enzymatic synthesis of an oligonucleotide is a cyclic process, based on a one by one addition of nucleotides by a DNA polymerase that requires no DNA template. This iterative process needs to be automated in a robust, reliable, and precise way to achieve high quality synthesis.

The role will be to lead the development and optimization of enzymatic DNA synthesis process, a core activity of the company. The candidate will rigorously conduct development studies to enhance the quality of DNA Script oligos in terms of purity, quantity, and functionality. He or she will be fully responsible for an automated platform dedicated to synthesis development activities, ensuring its functioning and continuous improvement. The candidate must have a solid molecular biology background, be handy and a quick learner to accurately grasp the subtilities of the technology, and efficiently troubleshoot automated systems. The position will require a lot of transversal and interdisciplinary communication with the different team members as well as with other teams to implement research protocols into future products.

This offer is an opportunity to join a rapidly growing company and to have a great opportunity of participating to the development of a new and revolutionary technology that will have far-reaching impact across biological sciences.

Responsibilities

Your missions will be:

• Full responsibility for maintenance and running of an automated synthesis liquid handler, internally developed instruments and the writing of associated new scripts and methods.
• Propose and develop new protocols to save time, simplify control, increase reproducibility, and minimize system errors.
• Experimental design for optimization of synthesis reaction parameters: new reagent formulation (based on design of experiment, screening…) or new process.
• Perform in depth analysis of experimental data, write reports and present results.
• Collaboration with external partners to develop new innovative application for our technology.
• Regular presentation and reporting across all levels of the company
• Actively contribute to critical company milestones, with a willingness to work outside immediate area of expertise when required.

Qualifications and experience

Essential

• Engineering degree or PhD in the field of biotechnology, molecular biology.
• 2 to 5 years of experience.
• Excellent knowledge in molecular biology and or biotechnology and in particular in DNA /RNA manipulation.
• Willingness to work on automated system, such as Hamilton or Tecan liquid handlers,
• Having basic coding skills (Python), or willing to learn
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and systematic troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Good level in English
• Highly motivated and proactive
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Desirable

• Excellent English skills and good French speaking level
• Experience in working with polymerase, DNA and /or RNA
• Experience in process optimization
• Experience in working with liquid-handling robot such as Hamilton

• Phone interview with the manager
• Day interview at the office with manager, HR, cofounders and the team
• References check
• Timing: 2-3 weeks