THE ROLEWe are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate to support the development and optimization of microbial strain engineering for recombinant protein production. Reporting to the Senior Scientist, Microbial Strain Engineering, this individual will play a key role in genetic engineering of microbial strains in a fast-paced startup environment.
The ideal candidate is highly hands-on, technically rigorous, and comfortable operating independently in a dynamic research setting. This role requires strong practical experience with DNA assembly strategies, microbial culture techniques, and laboratory operations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIESDNA Design and Assembly- Construct plasmids using modern molecular biology techniques (e.g: Golden Gate assembly, HiFi assembly, etc.)
- Perform sequencing analysis using state-of-the-art NGS technologies and software
- Prepare plasmid DNA through mini-preps, maxi-preps, etc.
Strain Engineering and Evaluation- Prepare competent cells for transformation of microbial strains
- Execute PCR to both prepare substrates for genetic engineering and genotyping of candidate strains
- Perform agarose gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid quantification, and sample preparation for routine functional assays
- Support screening and characterization of microbial strains in shake flask and microtiter plates
- Track strain performance metrics including biomass production, functional assay readouts, and product formation
Laboratory Operations- Generate and maintain microbial cell banks and inventory records
- Prepare media for strain-building campaigns
- Support routine laboratory maintenance, equipment upkeep, and troubleshooting
- Contribute to safe laboratory operations and maintain a strong culture of safety and operational rigor
- Maintain accurate and well-organized experimental records and documentation
Cross-Functional Collaboration- Collaborate with discovery, bioprocess development, downstream, and analytical teams to support integrated process development activities
- Closely partner with bioprocess development to align on best practices for strain development and evaluation
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree (with 5-7 years of relevant research experience) or Master's degree (with 3-5 years of relevant research experience) in Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related discipline.
- Hands-on experience in molecular biology, including design, isolation, and assembly of DNA
- Strong understanding of aseptic technique and microbial culture handling
- Strong communication, organizational and documentation skills
- Ability to independently execute experiments and troubleshoot routine process issues
Preferred Experience- Experience engineering industrial microbial hosts such as E. coli, Bacillus, yeast, or filamentous fungal systems
- Experience with flow cytometry, protein purification, assay design and implementation
- Familiarity with Benchling and Geneious
LOCATION: Cambridge, MA
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The salary range for this role is $81,000 - $107,250. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Protocos currently offers healthcare coverage, annual incentive program, retirement benefits and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation and benefits information is based on Protocos's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.
