Associate Scientist, HTS & NGS

Planet Pharma; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma in Cambridge, MA is seeking a contract Associate Scientist for our HTS-NGS operations. You will design and execute high-throughput cell-based assays, prepare amplicon-seq libraries, and maintain sequencing workflows to support RNA editing technology development.

You will analyze HTS/NGS data, collaborate with cross-functional teams, document rigorously, and help drive operational improvements in a fast-paced biotech environment.

Qualifications

• BS with 5+ years in molecular biology or related field.
• MS with 3+ years in molecular biology or related field.
• Experience with high-throughput assays and automated workflows.
• Proven wet-lab skills in RNA/DNA handling and sequencing prep.
• Familiarity with NGS workflows (amplicon-seq, RNA-seq) and data QC.
• Strong documentation and troubleshooting abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication in a fast-paced team.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute high-throughput cell-based assays for oligonucleotide projects.
• Prepare amplicon-seq libraries and run QC on sequencing data.
• Operate NGS platforms and related equipment, troubleshoot workflows.
• Analyze HTS/NGS data and present results with cross-functional teams.
• Support lab operations, inventory management, and ELN documentation.
• Collaborate to improve processes and contribute to lead discovery.

Skills

HTS assays

Cell culture

Transfection

PCR/qPCR

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in molecular biology

Master's degree in molecular biology or related field

Tools

Benchling (LIMS)

Jira/Confluence

Viaflo96/384

HiRes/Certus Flex

Tempest

Illumina MiSeq

Qubit

Tape Station / Fragment Analyzer

Job description

Location: Cambridge, MA – Onsite

Position Summary: biotech client is seeking a highly motivated contract Associate Scientist to join our HTS-NGS operations team and work with an enthusiastic team of highly skilled scientists. The ideal candidate for this lab-based position is committed to delivering high quality results in a timely manner. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a collaborative team and contribute to the development of next-generation RNA editing technology and therapeutics in a fast-paced biotech company. ?

Key Responsibilities:

• Independently design and execute high-throughput cell-based assays to support oligonucleotide platform and portfolio projects
• Perform amplicon-seq library preparation and quality control, operate and maintain NGS platforms and associated laboratory equipment
• ? Troubleshoot HTS assays, library preparation, and sequencing workflows as needed
• Analyze and present HTS‑NGS data based on results in a team setting; collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support lead discovery
• Support NGS scientists in operational tasks, including inventory management, assay development, and operations improvement
• Accurately document project and sample information, protocols, and experimental details through an Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN)

Required Qualifications:

• MS with 3+ years or BS with 5+ years of experience in molecular biology, cell biology, or related field
• 1+ years of hands‑on experience with high‑throughput assays and automated workflows
• Experience with cell culture techniques, including plating and transfection in 96/384‑well formats
• Experience with NGS assays: amplicon‑seq and RNA‑seq, including primer design, library preparation, quantification, and data quality control
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular biology techniques: RNA/DNA isolation, transfection, PCR/qPCR, gel electrophoresis
• Familiarity with liquid handling systems (e.g., Viaflo96/384, HiRes/Certus Flex, Tempest) is highly preferred
• Hands‑on experience with next‑generation sequencing platforms and equipment including Illumina (MiSeq i100), Qubit, Tape Station, and Fragment Analyzer is highly preferred
• ?Experience with LIMS systems (Benchling) and project management tools (Jira/Confluence)??
• ?Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to suggest and implement new solutions independently
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced and evolving environment