Associate Scientist:- Syensqo is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join our Renewable Materials and Biotechnology Platform at our Cambridge, MA location.
- This role will support early-stage innovation through the design, construction, and testing of engineered microbial strains and recombinant biological systems.
- The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience in DNA assembly, plasmid construction, cloning, and microbial strain engineering, with demonstrated work in E. coli, yeast, or other microbial hosts.
- This individual will contribute directly to the discovery, optimization, and scale-up of next-generation bio-based solutions by applying modern molecular biology, synthetic biology, high-throughput screening, and data-driven experimentation in a fast-paced, collaborative R&I environment.
- You will work at the interface of synthetic biology, microbial engineering, protein/enzyme engineering, and bioprocess development, partnering closely with Scientists and cross-functional teams to translate experimental insights into robust strains, improved enzymes, and scalable processes that impact real-world products and sustainability-focused programs.
We count on you to:- Design, build, and test recombinant DNA constructs, including plasmid construction, DNA assembly (Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate), cloning, transformation, and sequence verification.
- Engineer microbial strains using methods such as genome editing, pathway engineering, and library construction to improve performance metrics (titer, rate, yield).
- Conduct protein/enzyme engineering, including variant design, mutagenesis, cloning, expression, purification (as needed), and activity/stability characterization.
- Develop and run screening assays, including plate-based, microplate, shake-flask, or automation-enabled workflows, to evaluate microbial phenotypes, pathway performance, recombinant expression, or enzyme function.
- Document, analyze, and clearly communicate experimental results in the ELN and in team/cross-functional forums, including recommendations for next steps and early flagging of risks/opportunities
- Collaborate across R&I, while supporting lab excellence through EHS compliance, equipment readiness, inventory support, and standardization of protocols/best practices.
You will bring:- Bachelor's with 5+ years of experience or Master's degree with 2+ years of experience in Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field
- Experience designing, building, and testing genetic constructs for gene expression, pathway engineering, protein expression, or enzyme engineering applications.
- Demonstrated experience engineering or modifying microbial hosts, preferably E. coli, yeast, or other microorganisms used in biotechnology applications.
- Familiarity with plasmid design and sequence analysis tools such as Benchling, Geneious, SnapGene, or similar platforms.
- Previous laboratory experience focused on research and development
You will get:- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- The U.S. base salary range reasonably expected to be paid for this position is $98,720 - $123,400 per year. Since actual compensation packages are based on a variety of factors unique to each candidate we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted base salary range. Total compensation for this role also includes bonus and/or other incentives.
- 16, or more, weeks of maternity/paternity and co-parenting leave, according to local regulations
- Training platform for all employees
- Free well-being sessions (physical and psychological)
- 401-K Match
Additional Information:Location: Onsite-Boston, MA
