HTS Automation Scientist: Drive Throughput & Innovation

Ginkgo Bioworks Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,800 - 106,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock awards

Health insurance

401(k) program with employer match

Job summary

Ginkgo Bioworks Inc. is seeking a Scientist for the High Throughput Screening (HTS) wet-lab team at Ginkgo Datapoints. You will help onboard assays onto workcells, increase throughput, and ensure high-quality data from automated systems.

Responsibilities include executing screens, maintaining robotic platforms, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize assays and formats (384/1536 wells). A strong background in HTS, automation, and fast-paced science culture is required.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, or a related field with at least 3 years of industry experience in HTS or automation.
• Hands-on proficiency operating and troubleshooting HTS equipment such as the Echo, Prime/Lynx/Hamilton, EL406/Tempest/Combi liquid handlers, and Pherastar readers.
• Experience with automated scheduling software (Cellario) and LIMS/database environments is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with high-content imaging platforms or compound management workflows is a significant plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic culture with a strong sense of urgency and focus on high-quality deliverables.
• Effective communication skills to ensure alignment across cross-functional project teams and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Execute primary screens and downstream plate reader assays on automated systems with minimal supervision.
• Perform rigorous quality control of screening results, monitoring assay robustness (e.g., Z’ and CVs) to ensure data is accurately posted to electronic notebooks and databases.
• Test, maintain, and troubleshoot robotic platforms and liquid handlers to ensure peak performance and minimal downtime.
• Maintain impeccable lab records while supporting routine laboratory maintenance and safe lab practices.
• Partner with science teams to develop, optimize, and adapt biochemical and cell‑based assays into 384‑ and 1536‑well formats.
• Collaborate with bench scientists to transition manual assays onto fully automated screening systems and robotic workcells.
• Proactively identify and implement process improvements to increase throughput and drive overall screening efficiency.

Skills

Laboratory automation

HTS experience

Data logging/LIMS familiarity

Cross-functional communication

Education

BS or MS in Molecular Biology/related field

Tools

Echo liquid handler

Prime/Lynx/Hamilton platforms

EL406/Tempest/Combi liquid handlers

Pherastar readers

Cellario scheduling software

LIMS/database environments

Job description

Ginkgo Bioworks Inc. is seeking a Scientist for the High Throughput Screening (HTS) wet-lab team at Ginkgo Datapoints. You will help onboard assays onto workcells, increase throughput, and ensure high-quality data from automated systems.

Responsibilities include executing screens, maintaining robotic platforms, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize assays and formats (384/1536 wells). A strong background in HTS, automation, and fast-paced science culture is required.