Senior Research Associate, Automation Production Operations

 

We are seeking a Senior Research Associate, Automation Production Operations to take a lead role in the operation of robotic systems. Reporting to the Associate Director of Automation, this position will advance Metagenomi’s science by planning, organizing, and executing high throughput experimentation using our robotic systems. The role will play a key role in the continual optimization and expansion of our robotic capabilities and be a lead in working with scientists to effectively drive efficiency and accuracy in early research data generation. The individual will drive projects forward and focus on the production aspects of our cutting-edge tools and expand our capabilities across laboratory teams. The role will be based in Emeryville, California.

How you’ll contribute

• Use Metagenomi’s suite of standalone and integrated robotic systems to execute automated experimental protocols characterizing and engineering novel gene editing systems 

• Become proficient at assigned automated workflows and error recovery within those workflows; use this knowledge to ensure success of screens

• Take a lead in production aspects of automation and robotics and collaborate heavily with discovery and other research groups to drive efficient production methods

• Maintain operational readiness of Automation laboratory activities by maintaining inventory of labware/reagents 

• Coordinate sample procurement/accessioning in service of screening runs

• Work with Automation Scientists and Automation Engineers to continuously refine and improve existing production workflows for higher throughput and more intuitive, streamlined operation

• Maintain strong SOPs for documentation and other automation goals.

What you bring

• BS/MS in life sciences with at least four years of industry laboratory research and automation experience

• Demonstrated experience using automated liquid handling systems (such as Hamilton, Tecan, or Beckman systems) in service of R&D, and research experience using molecular biology skill sets

• A keen understanding of lab automation tools and the desire to be a go-to expert for scientists on robotic tools

• Familiarity with gene editing systems such as CRISPR/Cas9

• Broad assay experience including a variety of readout modalities; ideally experience with biochemical and cell-based assay development

• Previous work experience in a high-throughput production/operations setting

• A service focused mentality that will drive production and evaluate and implement ways new tools

• Effective communication with the ability to convey complex automation processes to scientists across disciplines

• Extremely organized and able to efficiently manage your time and workflow

• A collaborative disposition with the adaptability to manage changing priorities in a fast-paced startup environment

 

This position is classified as an exempt position under the Federal Labor Standards Act.  The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $100,00-$115,000.  You will also be eligible to receive equity, bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered. Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company’s sole discretion and may vary based on location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education.

 

About Metagenomi

Metagenomi is a gene editing company committed to developing potentially curative therapeutics by leveraging a proprietary toolbox of next-generation gene editing systems to accurately edit DNA where current technologies cannot. Our metagenomics-powered discovery platform and analytical expertise reveal novel cellular machinery sourced from otherwise unknown organisms. We adapt and forge these naturally evolved systems into powerful gene editing systems that are ultra-small, extremely efficient, highly specific and have a decreased risk of immune response. These systems fuel our pipeline of novel medicines and can be leveraged by partners. Our goal is to revolutionize gene editing for the benefit of patients around the world. For more information, please visit https://metagenomi.co/.

 

What makes Metagenomi a unique place to work?

• We are passionate about developing technologies derived from microbial-rich ecosystems that have the power to enable therapeutic development and the potential to cure devastating disease.
• We have cultivated an amazing culture that values teamwork, curiosity, scientific rigor, and fun. We have a strong com