Automation Specialist / Associate Scientist - Automation

Job Summary :

Actively seeking a highly skilled automation specialist with a strong background in liquid handling robotics and integration with supporting instrumentation. The ideal candidate will demonstrate innovative approaches when designing, optimizing, and implementing Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) or cell- and organoid-based workflows on automated robotic systems. As part of this role, the candidate will cultivate a growth mindset and develop expertise in emerging automation technologies. The candidate will also conduct experiments, including scale-down, high-throughput, and automation, to enhance our team's screening capabilities in patient-derived organoid model systems for early drug target discovery. This role offers a unique opportunity for the successful candidate to collaborate with diverse cross-functional scientific teams and contribute to groundbreaking drug discoveries that directly impact patient health.

Responsibilities :

• Integrate Liquid Handling Robotics : Seamlessly incorporate liquid handling robotics (such as Beckman-Coulter Biomek i7 & Dynamic Devices Lynx) with supporting instrumentation to execute molecular and cellular biology and organoid workflows.
• Automate Standardized Assays : Validate and deploy automated workflows for various standardized assays, including DNA / RNA purification, NGS library preparation, qPCR, cell and organoid passaging, cell / organoid media changes, cell-based viability assays, high-content cell imaging, and sample normalization.
• Collaborate and Translate Benchtop Processes : Work closely with scientists to translate benchtop processes into fully automated workflows. This involves programming / scripting stepwise protocols and rigorously validating processes through dry and wet runs.
• Design User-Friendly Processes : Develop and validate end-to-end processes on integrated lab automation platforms, prioritizing user-friendly design, robust execution, and secure data management.
• Troubleshoot and Enhance Efficiency : Perform advanced experimental troubleshooting alongside scientists to improve ease-of-use, process efficiency, and scientific integrity.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration : Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate NGS and organoid workflows into automated liquid handling systems, ensuring project success.
• Technical Troubleshooting : Address technical and instrument issues related to automation, NGS, and cell-based workflows.
• User Training : Train end-users in automated platform usage (Beckman-Coulter Biomek i7, Dynamic Devices Lynx, Analytik Jena CyBio FeliX) and workflow execution.
• Stay Current with Technology : Keep up-to-date with advancements in automation technology and emerging methodologies applicable to liquid handling systems.
• Independent Workflow Development : Work independently on Client automated workflows.
• Meticulous Record Keeping : Generate, organize, and maintain meticulous records of all conducted experiments.
• Collaboration and Organization : Collaborate with multiple teams across the organization, supporting and sharing methodologies while aligning efforts and harmonizing experimentation.
• Lab and Equipment Management : Manage lab and equipment organization and maintenance

Qualifications, Skills / Knowledge preferred

Preferred Skills :