Research Associate, Computational Biology: - Willow Biosciences

About Willow Biosciences: Willow Biosciences is a synthetic biology company that develops biobased processes for production of ingredients in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and consumer care sectors. Willow’s FutureGrown^TM and BioOxi^TM platforms were built to revolutionize industrial manufacturing of pure, consistent, and sustainable ingredients with sustainability at its core. Our fully integrated bio-based processes are more sustainable, secure, and cost-effective than traditional extraction or chemical synthesis routes and typically provide products of higher purity and yield.

Mission, Values and Beliefs: At Willow Biosciences, we are committed to bringing high-purity compounds to market through scalable and cost-effective bio-based processes. We work hard, we are serious about what we do, and we like to have fun while we are at it!

Position: Research Associate, Computational Biology: We are seeking a motivated individual to support Willow’s multidisciplinary team engaged in enzyme and strain engineering. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in data management, and cloud computing, with a foundational knowledge of biology. This role will focus on maintaining and enhancing our PostgreSQL data warehouse, managing our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and modernizing our computational infrastructure by transitioning to the cloud. Previous experience working with scientists is essential as you will be collaborating closely with our laboratory personnel to understand, interpret, integrate, and develop bioinformatic analyses in multiple contexts. A strong desire to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure, collaborative environment is necessary.

Location: Sunnyvale, CA US

Education: BSc/MSc in Computational Biology, Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics, Systems Biology, Bioinformatics, or similar field; interdisciplinary work is strongly encouraged. 

Essential experience requirements:

• Required >2 years of experience working in an industrial research setting (Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical, or Life Sciences Industries).
• Experience with Python and R programming.
• Experience in developing and/or maintaining applications for graphical user interface (GUI) querying of SQL databases.
• Demonstrated independent bioinformatic or data science project work preferably within the biotechnology industry.
• Knowledge of best practices for collaborative software development (version control systems, test-driven development, and good documentation habits).

Responsibilities Include:

• Data Analysis and Visualization: Collaborate with scientists to develop apps and other tools which will provide scientists with the ability to easily view and integrate data from multiple sources (Rshiny Apps, Stremlit/Dash Apps)
• LIMS System Maintenance: Oversee the operation and maintenance of our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), including troubleshooting and resolving issues (experience with Benchling strongly preferred).
• Technical Support: Provide technical support to scientists and other team members, assisting with data retrieval, analysis, and interpretation.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Collaboration: Working closely with an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to develop algorithms, models, and computational workflows to analyze large amounts of data (sequence, analytical, fermentation).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with scripting for automation equipment, including developing and maintaining scripts to interface with laboratory automation systems.
• Strong proficiency with relational database management systems.
• Proficiency with cloud computing & infrastructure, especially AWS.
• Experience with machine learning and statistical modelling for biological data.
• Knowledge of good experimental design & statistical analysis in R, Python, and JMP.
• Experience with data visualization and reporting.
• Experience with molecular biology methods and concepts.
• Other requirements: the ability to work in a highly parallel manner, ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team; critical thinking and attention to detail; ability to plan, prioritize responsibilities, and multi-task; excellent housekeeping and safety practices; outstanding team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal), excellent documentation, and organization skills; a strong desire to grow as a scientific researcher, intellectually curious, learn new techniques and adopt new technologies for process improvements, experience working with LIMS

Physical Demands: 

• Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods
• Performing repetitive tasks with hands, fingers, and wrists
• Use of standard lab PPE (lab coats, safety glasses, and gloves)

Position Type: Full-time position

Travel: Not required

Work Authorization: Authorized to work in the US.

Benefits:

• Healthcare Benefits – medical, vision, dental
• Vacation + Paid Holidays
• Life / AD&D, Short-term and Long-term Disability Insurance
• 401k

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Willow Biosciences is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.