Job Title: Senior Research Associate
Reporting to: Manager, Molecular Biology
Location: Durham, North Carolina
About Pairwise:
Pairwise is a mission driven AgriFoodTech company pioneering the application of CRISPR technology in food and agriculture. Founded in 2017 by leading scientists in the gene editing and biotechnology fields, Pairwise holds licenses from Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital to base editing and high-fidelity enzymes – in addition to our own proprietary, company-developed suite of novel tools.
Anchored by our Fulcrum™ platform and deep technical and agronomic expertise in more than 60 crops, we’re accelerating innovation in plant genetics, food and agricultural products, supply chains, and production systems. Our expert team delivers commercially viable products that benefit the planet, consumers, growers, and our business partners.
After successfully delivering 27 novel traits to Bayer’s pipeline during our first collaboration for corn, soy, wheat, and canola, our second collaboration currently underway is focused on developing climate-friendly short-stature corn – with more partnerships on the horizon. Our consumer-facing pipeline includes seedless blackberries and pitless cherries.
Named one of America’s Top GreenTech Companies, Pairwise is based in the start-up friendly Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina.
About This Role:
Pairwise is seeking a highly dedicated Senior Research Associate to join our Molecular Biology team, responsible for the design and production of genome editing tools used to create new products that you may one day find on a grocery shelf!
This role will require a demonstrated mastery of molecular biology wet lab techniques and a proven track-record of troubleshooting skills and creative thinking to address complex biological challenges. To be successful, you should have strong communication skills and be adept at integrating into a team and collaborating cross-functionally.
Utilizing bachelor or master’s level training, as well as robust experience with molecular biology methods, you will be responsible for tackling complex cloning projects, designing and leading process development projects to further optimize our dynamic vector production pipeline, and coordinating efforts to address molecular biology needs across the R&D organization. You will serve as a leader within the team, bringing technical expertise and promoting a strong culture of quality and excellence. This role will see you working in a highly collaborative and cross-functional environment where your contributions will be critical in helping Pairwise meet technology and product development goals.
Essential Functions:
• In collaboration with members across the R&D organization, build highly efficient genome editing vectors to achieve trait and tool development goals.
• Work closely with members of the molecular biology team to ensure that all vectors pass a rigorous quality standard in a variety of cell types.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts of complex cloning projects within the vector production pipeline to ensure on-time delivery to downstream partners.
• Design and lead process development projects to optimize vector production performance within the pipeline.
• Work with other R&D teams to understand their needs, and coordinate efforts to expand the scope of molecular biology services to address them.
• Serve as a leader within the team, fostering a culture with strong technical, strategic, and quality standards.
Required Education & Experience:
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field, such as molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, or biology.
• 10+ years previous molecular biology lab work experience required in a professional setting.
• Robust experience with DNA cloning techniques, preferably Golden Gate cloning, including troubleshooting of difficult projects.
• Experience and knowledge keeping accurate scientific records via LIMS and laboratory notebooks.
• Experience and knowledge in laboratory safety, including use of PPE, SDSs and proper handling and disposal of laboratory waste.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams.
• Ability to mentor others in molecular biology technique and strategy.
• Ability to work independently on individual experiments.
Offerings:
• Comprehensive Benefits Plan, including Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA/FSA, 401k, Life Insurance, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability, and more!
• Flexible PTO (use what you need, when you need it), in addition to company holidays.
• Casual work environment.
• Mission-driven organization focused on creating healthier fruits and veggies.
• A cutting-edge, driven community looking to lead the industry in innovation and nutrition.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performin
Location: Durham, NC
Posted: Oct. 7, 2024, 9:42 a.m.
Apply Now Company Website