Research Associate II - Molecular Biology

Job Summary:  Research Associate II within the Ames Innovation Center working within the Operations Team, leading the molecular processes in the lab.  The Team focus is developing processes that exceed our customer’s expectations for chemistry and biological testing on Agricultural soil samples.

Responsibilities:

• Sample processing, supporting assay optimization, identifying automation opportunities, qualifying changes, and implementing changes. Build rapport with end-users, lab supervisors, and process owners. Document process changes and deviations and ensure successful implementation.
• Maintain the Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost aspects of the Molecular Processes.

• Ensure maintenance and continuity of Molecular Processes, including reagent preparation inventory organization, and coordinating preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Work with the Sample Prep Lead and Lab Director to determine sample volume and capacity needs.
• Identify opportunities for improvement, propose experimental plans, along with process mapping, and execute those plans once approved.
• Plan and execute complex laboratory experiments in collaboration with Development Scientists.
• Analyze data using advanced analytical tools.
• Documentation: write protocols and experimental plans, and document results and scientific interpretations.
• Maintain Standard Operating Procedures and Job Safety Analysis for the production processes.
• Contribute insight toward experimental findings and troubleshoot laboratory processes and protocols.
• Communicate and discuss results with a multidisciplinary team, including biologists, bioinformaticians, statisticians, software engineers, and managers.

Requirements:

• B.S. or M.S. in molecular biology, microbiology, environmental science, or related fields.
• A minimum of 2 to 4 years of experience as a Research Associate.
• Experience in library construction for NGS and a deep understanding of essential molecular biology methods such as DNA extraction, PCR, purification, analysis tools and instrumentation, DNA quantitation, and quality control are required.
• Experience with Next Generation Sequencing techniques and protocols.
• Experience implementing laboratory automation, preferably liquid handling platforms.
• Experience with data analysis (R, excel, Minitab, JMP)