Research Scientist I, Enzyme Development

Watchmaker Genomics • Boulder, CO

4d • $83,000 - $87,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Research Scientist 1, Enzyme Development based in Boulder, CO. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success. This is an onsite/in-office position. The position provides an opportunity to grow and develop as a scientist and gain valuable experience in product development and commercialization. The position will be responsible for product development, characterization, and process development (fermentation and purification) for new and existing enzyme products. This individual will be responsible for executing and documenting experimental protocols and will work closely with the broader scientific, manufacturing, and new product development teams. The scope of experimentation will cover Watchmaker’s enzyme product suite for internal and external use in genomics applications. Quality of work is of paramount importance as results will be used to determine long term manufacturing strategies. Data generated by this individual may be shared at conferences and/or in peer-reviewed literature, in webinars, marketing brochures, on the website, or directly to customers seeking technical support.

Requirements

• The candidate should have a PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, chemical/biological engineering or a related discipline and directly relevant research experience (or equivalent degree and experience).
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and analyze molecular biology & bioprocessing lab work to determine next steps in a project
• Experience with standard bioprocessing techniques such as fermentation, FPLC purification, and functional molecular biology assays
• Strong writing skills with ability to record and communicate scientific content
• Ability to effectively communicate novel scientific concepts
• The ability to multitask, be able to work at a high standard, perform consistently under pressure along with pre-determined deadlines and work without supervision.
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to work as an effective member of a team
• Excellent organizational skills and outstanding attention to detail
• Good communication and personal task management skills and a high level of self-motivation and initiative
• Drives granular project planning including proposing project timelines, resource requirements, and project management as a scientific lead
• A creative and disciplined approach to problem-solving
• Time management and prioritization under deadlines

Nice To Haves

• Experience in the following areas is considered highly desirable: molecular biology (PCR, qPCR, DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes), enzyme kinetics and characterization, bioprocessing, bioreactor fermentation, FPLC purification, protein HPLC, Next-Gen Sequencing, and genomics.
• Knowledge of protein manufacturing and product development are a plus.
• Experience in biotech and a start-up environment are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Plan and perform enzyme research & development experiments including: small scale bioreactor fermentation, FPLC purification optimization, enzyme characterization (biophysical, functional, and kinetic), and molecular biology assays
• Design and execute experiments, and implement and maintain laboratory protocols
• Carefully interpret data and accurately document the details of all experiments in an electronic lab notebook
• Contribute to a team responsible for launch of commercially successful genomics products through customer collaborations and product technical support
• Identify and implement opportunities for internal continuous process improvement
• The above responsibilities are not exhaustive and other similar duties may be required from time to time.

Benefits

• Employees are eligible for Flexible Time Off, Holidays, employer covers 75% of base medical plan with buy-up options, EAP (employee assistance program), employer paid dental with a buy-up option, employer paid vision, employer paid $25,000 life/AD&D policy, paid parental leave, and a 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% match.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree