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Purpose of the Position: Nucleic acid synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization of oligonucleotides for research and for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) product development. Consistent with company practices, procedures and policies, carry out routine and non-routine experimentation. Apply knowledge of advanced concepts and principles to investigations including formulation optimization, chemical, reagent or oligonucleotide stability and other chemistry related studies that may be associated with medical diagnostic genetic test feasibility, development and improvement.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned):
- Work under general direction of supervisor to design, implement and document laboratory experiments, interpret and analyze experimental results
- Provide periodic updates and summarize work for supervisory review as needed
- Operate laboratory and equipments as needed for small to mid-scale oligonucleotide synthesis (typically <10 umole, up to 100 umole), purification and characterization using in-house and external resources
- Apply knowledge of chemistry and nucleic acid chemistry of oligonucleotides to design and conduct experiments to improve existing-, investigate new- or improved-oligonucleotide and/or chemical production processes that will meet diagnostic product objectives. Experimentation will be carried out in-house and at times through external collaboration.
- Carry out analytical procedures development of varying complexity for significant projects consistent with corporate goals and timelines
- Implement analytical chemistry capability as needed for oligonucleotides, phosphoramidites and related synthesis materials, dNTPs, MgCl2, and related materials as raw materials and in finished formulations as needed. Methods may include HPLC, gel analysis, spectrophotometry, fluorescence spectrophotometry, ion analysis, among others
- Outsource analytical methods when necessary, for example, CE, Mass Spectrometry, moisture analysis (eg. Karl Fisher)
- Develop, implement and maintain procedures performed to the appropriate quality standards for R&D product development and technology transfer
- Assist to develop in collaboration with Assay Development, market-appropriate formulation and stability properties for oligonucleotide products, and analytical specifications for purified oligonucleotide primers, sequences and otherwise specialty-labeled probes
- Carry out and/or direct organic chemical synthesis strategies directly related to corporate goals including phosphoramidite chemistry, nucleic acid labeling reagents, oligonucleotide conjugation chemistry, solid-phase chemistry, and others.
- Summarize work as appropriate for internal or external reporting purposes, represent work at internal and external meetings as required, and propose new strategies to address immediate and upcoming technical issues.
Supervisory Responsibilities: May train and assist others in relevant chemistry methodology as directed. May supervise or coordinate the work of lower level chemists and research associates.
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Nucleic acid oligonucleotide synthesis on automated instrumentation
- Oligonucleotide (DNA and related) modifications including post-synthesis chemical modification of oligonucleotides
- Nucleic acid purification and analysis on HPLC equipment
- Troubleshooting and repair or coordination of repair on all standard laboratory equipment
- Collaboration with external scientists and organizations on projects, including effective presentation of data, summary of scientific results, and strategic experimental planning
- Advanced organic chemistry knowledge of laboratory safety, hazardous waste handling, decomposition and waste management
Education and Experience: Organic Chemistry, M.S. with >5 years or Ph.D. with 0-2 years relevant industrial experience. Medical Device and/or in vitro diagnostic experience highly preferred.
Language Skills: Must be proficient in writing and communicating in the English language.
Mathematical Skills: Must be consistent with M.S./Ph.D. level education
Reasoning Ability: Good problem solving, judgement and decision making skill are required
Certifications, Licenses, Registrations: None required
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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work entails regularly performing tasks while working at a computer, desk, laboratory bench or automated machine. Work may involve occasional climbing or balance. Work entails occasional lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds. Work occasionally requires travel between buildings. This is typically completed by foot or by car.
The employee’s sensory modalities (vision, hearing, smell) and physical capabilities (ambulation without mechanical assistance, strength, coordination, dexterity, range of motion) must be sufficient to independently perform duties/functions of the position.
Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position will involve a combination of office and biotechnology laboratory environments. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, blood borne pathogens, automated equipment, and high levels of noise and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Please send your resume to: opcareers4@osmetech.com |
