Lab Technician, Strains - Seattle, United States - Lumen Bioscience

Description

Summary:
Lumen is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Laboratory Technician to join our team.

The Laboratory Technician will closely work with other scientists in the R&D group to develop biologics using Lumen's spirulina-based expression system.

The individual is expected to handle and maintain cyanobacterial cultures; perform standard molecular biology techniques such as PCR, bacterial cloning, bacterial transformation, plasmid purification and gel extraction; and contribute to general lab housekeeping.

The position requires the ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as within a team.

It also requires significant attention to detail and the ability to track a large amount of processes and samples occurring in parallel.

A successful candidate should also be comfortable assisting other laboratory personnel in the development and application of new techniques.

The position requires the ability to work as a team member in a fast-paced environment and to assist other laboratory personnel as needed.

It is central to Lumen's acquisition and integration of new and complex technologies, and to sharing such capabilities with other teams, and as such, flexibility and independence will be essential.

The position requires strong organizational skills and meticulous laboratory record keeping.

Effective communication skills are crucial in coordinating with the relevant teams to meet milestones and deadlines and in raising quality or troubleshooting issues as they may arise.

The position includes providing status updates and presenting in group and company-wide meetings.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The major tasks for this position are as follows:

• Establish and routinely execute standard molecular biology and microbiology protocols such as: PCR, plasmid purifications, media preparation, sterile bacterial strain handling and genomic DNA isolation.
• Grow and maintain cyanobacterial cell cultures.
• Provide written reports and regularly present work at group meetings and company-wide meetings.
• Keep clear and organized notes of all performed procedures and generated results.
• All lab staff are expected to dedicate 10% of their time to supporting lab operations (maintenance, clean-up, etc).
• This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of duties, activities, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Desired Qualifications & Requirements:

• BA/BS degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology or related field of study.
• 1-2 years of molecular biology laboratory work experience (academic institute laboratory experience is acceptable).
• Experience with basic microbiology techniques such as bacterial culturing, plate streaking and media-making.
• Molecular biology experience such as cloning, DNA isolation, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE, and vector construction.
• Mastery of aseptic techniques, including ability to work effectively in a laminar flow hood.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills is required.
• Self-starter, able to contribute effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• The ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented environment.
• High integrity and ethics.
• Commitment to quality and timely delivery of results.

Physical Requirements:

• Sit for extended periods of time (2 or more hours)
• Occasionally lift or carry up to 50 lbs. with assistance.
• Perform delicate manual procedures in the laboratory.

The pay range for this role is $25 per hour.