Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
5+ years of experience in automation engineering or related roles
Proficiency in writing automation scripts for liquid handling platforms
Experience with Opentrons and Hamilton systems
Familiarity with laboratory data systems and instrument APIs
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Experience with 3D printing and custom hardware solutions
Responsibilities
Design and implement code-driven laboratory workflows for molecular and synthetic biology
Write automation scripts to control and troubleshoot liquid handling platforms
Integrate instrument APIs with laboratory data systems for automated data transfer
Translate established biological workflows into validated automated processes
Collaborate with software engineers and project managers to enhance automation systems
Document and validate automation processes, ensuring version control
Develop custom laboratory hardware solutions as needed
Benefits
Flexible work hours and remote work options
Opportunities for professional development and training
Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
Access to cutting-edge laboratory technologies
Health and wellness programs
Full Job Description
Job Description
The Automation Engineer will design, implement, and maintain code-driven laboratory workflows for molecular biology and synthetic biology applications, including documentation, validation, and version control. This role involves writing automation scripts and software to program, control, and troubleshoot liquid handling platforms - including Opentrons and Hamilton systems - and implementing Hamilton VENUS methods in code to translate established biological workflows into validated automated processes. The engineer will build integrations with instrument APIs and laboratory data systems to enable automated data transfer and workflow orchestration, and will also design and implement custom laboratory hardware solutions, including 3D-printed components. This role requires close collaboration with software engineers, project managers, and laboratory staff to convert manual protocols into robust, code-based automated systems, with familiarity across multiple automation platforms and vendor ecosystems considered a plus.
Required Skills
About Boston University
Boston University (BU) is a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts. The university is nonsectarian but maintains its historical affiliation with the United Methodist Church. It was founded in 1839 by Methodists with its original campus in Newbury, Vermont, before moving to Boston in 1867. The university now has more than 3,900 faculty members and nearly 33,000 students, and is one of Boston's largest employers. It offers bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, doctorates, and medical, dental, business, and law degrees through 17 schools and colleges on two urban campuses. BU is a member of the Boston Consortium for Higher Education and the Association of American Universities.
