Senior Research Associate, Preclinical DNA Manufacturing

Position Summary:

We are seeking a Senior/Principal Research Associate to join Orbital Therapeutics to support the production of DNA templates for RNA synthesis. The successful candidate will plan and execute the production and purification of DNA templates using both the traditional plasmid-based approach and novel cell-free technologies. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to interact and learn with different cross-functional teams including process development, analytical development, and the RNA platform. 

Responsibilities:

• Perform cell-based/cell-free production and purification of DNA templates.
• Partner with the analytical and process development groups to develop and implement methods to purify and assess the quality of DNA templates for RNA production.
• Explore new and promising technologies for accelerating the production of DNA.
• Assist the pre-clinical RNA production group as necessary with RNA synthesis.
• Maintain an excellent record of inventory and purchase necessary reagents for DNA production.
• Maintain master cell banks (MCB) and working cell banks (WCB) as needed.
• Collaborate with other members of the wider teams to accelerate Orbital programs.

Qualifications:

• B.S./M.S. in Biochemistry/Molecular biology with 4+ years of experience.
• Hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR and bacterial cloning strategies including Golden Gate Assembly and/or Gibson Assembly is required.
• Previous experience in plasmid production/optimization from bacteria or cell-free methods is required.
• Experience generating and maintaining master cell banks and working cell banks is preferred.
• Previous experience in performing analytics on DNA using Capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE), Liquid Chromatography (LC) or sequencing is highly desirable.