Research Associate, Supervisor Synthesis Production

Overview

Atlas Data Storage is an information technology company building data storage products leveraging the unique properties of synthetic DNA. We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to supervise building our production team and lab dedicated to advancing our massively parallel semiconductor-based DNA synthesis platform. This position will engage in hands-on, bench-level work, and collaborate closely with our Synthesis and Engineering team to provide the early-stage production of DNA for data storage applications to help develop new customers and products.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Directly support the of Atlas’s CMOS chip-based DNA synthesis, including both Phosphoramidite and Enzymatic workflows as required to support product and customer development needs. This will entail working with scientists, engineers, and business development staff on a daily basis.
• Perform regular on-chip DNA synthesis runs for customers, encompassing reagent preparation, chip handling, extraction of DNA, and post extraction PCR, Aliquoting and encapsulation
• Responsible for leading operation of all hardware and managing limited scale production, growing team as business demands. Engineering and Biochemistry will provide needed training and support to assure ongoing success.
• Develop and help analyze QC data, utilize data to ensure that completed samples are all of adequate quality before shipment.
• Develop and implement SOPs for production process. Train and manager RAs and Operators to execute the SOPs effectively. Develop processes to reduce turnaround time and optimize production/

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Molecular Biology or other relevant field. 5 plus years work experience in an industry setting is desirable.
• Prior experience with custom instrumentation within a workflow: running experiments to characterize either the instrument, chip, or other modules involved in the process. Comfortable in learning to operate new hardware.
• Experience in using a range of automated liquid handlers
• Experience in research or production of solid phase oligonucleotide (DNA) synthesis (phosphoramidite and/or enzymatic)
• Experience with laboratory techniques including DNA characterization (Qubit, Nanodrop, Bioanalyzer, CE), PCR, qPCR, LCMS, NGS, DNA hybridization assay experience -preferred
• Knowledge of silicon processing techniques or electrochemistry – a plus
• Understanding of micro-scale processes, physics, chemistry, surface chemistry development – a plusd
• Self-learner, self-starter, with the ability to grasp concepts and techniques on the go. Desire to wear multiple hats within a small unit and develop a well-rounded multi-disciplinary profile
• Experience in effectively managing and training small groups of research associates and operators to develop and maintain production efficiency while ensuring compliance with SOPs and need procedures.