Job Description
Shift: 1st Work Schedule: 9-5 EST; M-F
The Cell Line Development Department at *** is seeking a highly motivated Molecular Biology Scientist to join a high-performing, collaborative team focused on optimizing CHO cell line development platforms through advanced molecular biology techniques and automation. Responsibilities will focus on improving process workflows, expression system components, and CLD methods used to generate recombinant CHO cell lines for production of protein biologics. This will include the design and generation of next generation vector topologies utilizing modern cloning strategies such as Gibson assembly and Golden Gate cloning. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in high-throughput molecular biology workflows and automated vector construction pipelines. Work will directly support development projects in ***'s pipeline and will include frequent cross-functional interactions with colleagues in ***'s global CMC sites (US, France).
Key Responsibilities
• Design and construct expression vectors using advanced molecular cloning techniques including Gibson assembly, Golden Gate cloning, restriction enzyme-based cloning, and site-directed mutagenesis
• Develop, optimize, and implement automated workflows for high-throughput vector construction and DNA assembly on liquid handling platforms
• Generate, validate, and bank vector constructs for expression of candidate biotherapeutic molecules in mammalian cell systems
• Perform molecular characterization of cell lines and constructs using techniques such as ddPCR, Sanger sequencing, and restriction mapping
• Support NGS library preparation for genomic and transcriptomic analysis of CHO cell lines
• Optimize and troubleshoot molecular biology protocols to improve efficiency and reproducibility
• Prepare technical reports and presentations to communicate progress and data
Basic Qualifications • PhD (0-3 years) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or related discipline
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular cloning techniques including Gibson assembly, Golden Gate cloning, restriction cloning, and PCR-based methods
• Demonstrated expertise in DNA construct design, vector engineering, and plasmid preparation
• Experience with genetic characterization methods such as ddPCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing analysis
• Proficiency in designing and optimizing molecular biology workflows for automation on liquid handling platforms (Hamilton, Tecan, or similar)
• Strong technical background in molecular biology with excellent attention to detail and troubleshooting skills
• Self-motivated with excellent organization, time-management, and communication skills
• Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks and documentation of all experimental procedures
• Demonstrated ability to work as member of a team and adhere to timelines
Preferred Qualifications
• Mammalian cell culture experience in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting, particularly with CHO cells
• Experience with high-throughput screening and clone selection strategies
• Familiarity with bioinformatic tools for DNA sequence analysis, primer design, and in silico cloning (Snapgene, Geneious, Benchling, Primer3 or similar)
• Knowledge of CHO cell line development processes and recombinant protein expression
• Experience using Oxford Nanopore Technologies in NGS workflows
• Basic programming skills in R or Python for data analysis and visualization
• Experience with Bash/command line scripting for bioinformatics workflows and data processing
• Experience with automated colony picking and clone tracking systems
• Flexibility to adjust to a fast-paced, goal-oriented environment and willingness to expand and broaden skillset
As a healthcare company and a vaccine manufacturer, *** has an important responsibility to protect individual and public health. All US based roles require individuals to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as part of your job responsibilities.
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