Senior Strain Engineering Associate - Microbial Innovation

Flagship Pioneering; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 107,000; Full time

Job summary

Flagship Pioneering in Cambridge, MA is seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate to support microbial strain engineering for recombinant protein production. Reporting to the Senior Scientist, you will work hands-on in a fast-paced startup environment.

You will design and assemble DNA, perform PCR and sequencing, maintain cell banks, and collaborate with discovery and process development teams to advance integrated projects.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in molecular biology, including design, isolation, and assembly of DNA.
• Strong understanding of aseptic technique and microbial culture handling.
• Excellent communication, organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to independently execute experiments and troubleshoot routine process issues.

Responsibilities

• DNA design and plasmid assembly using modern molecular biology techniques.
• Perform sequencing analysis using state-of-the-art NGS technologies and software.
• Prepare plasmid DNA through mini-preps, maxi-preps, etc.
• Prepare competent cells for transformation of microbial strains; perform PCR for substrates and genotyping.
• Maintain microbial strain banks and inventory records; prepare media for campaigns.
• Collaborate with discovery, bioprocess development, downstream, and analytical teams.

Skills

DNA design & assembly

Molecular biology

Aseptic technique

Troubleshooting experiments

Documentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering/Biochemistry/Biotechnology

Master’s degree in Bioengineering/Biochemistry/Biotechnology

Tools

Benchling

Geneious

NGS analysis software

Job description

Flagship Pioneering in Cambridge, MA is seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate to support microbial strain engineering for recombinant protein production. Reporting to the Senior Scientist, you will work hands-on in a fast-paced startup environment.

You will design and assemble DNA, perform PCR and sequencing, maintain cell banks, and collaborate with discovery and process development teams to advance integrated projects.