Associate Scientist/Scientist - The Steely Group

As an Associate Scientist/Scientist, you will report to the associate director of Protein Labs, playing an essential role in advancing our client’s therapeutic pipeline by applying molecular cloning, gene-editing techniques, and bacterial strain engineering. You will be responsible for designing and performing E. coli modifications, including gene knockouts, and other molecular biology techniques to support our drug discovery and development efforts. Your contributions will support both preclinical research and early-stage manufacturing processes. 

This role will involve cross-functional collaboration, detailed experimental work, and analysis to ensure successful implementation of genetic modifications for improved strain performance, plasmid design, and expression optimization. 

Responsibilities:

• Perform molecular cloning, plasmid construction, and gene-editing techniques (e.g., CRISPR, homologous recombination) to modify and optimize E. coli strains for expression of target proteins and pathways. 
• Design and execute E. coli knockout experiments and genetic modifications to improve expression systems. 
• Conduct a variety of molecular biology techniques, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing, to verify constructs and strain modifications. 
• Perform microbial culturing, maintenance, and preparation of modified bacterial strains for downstream applications. 
• Collaborate with microbiologists, biochemists, and process development scientists to integrate strain engineering with overall production workflows. 
• Analyze experimental data, troubleshoot issues, and report findings to cross-functional teams. 
• Ensure all research complies with applicable regulatory standards and internal quality guidelines. 
• Contribute to scientific reports, presentations, and potential publications based on research findings. 

Qualifications:

• B.S or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or a related field. 
• Proven experience with molecular cloning, gene editing, and bacterial strain engineering. 
• Strong background in standard molecular biology techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing. 
• Experience in bacterial culture, fermentation, and microbial system optimization is a plus. 
• Ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment with excellent communication and teamwork skills. 
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities, with a demonstrated ability to overcome technical challenges in molecular biology.