Senior Strain Engineering Research Associate

Flagship Pioneering; Cambridge, Northern (MA, KY); Hybrid; USD 81,000 - 107,000; Full time

Job summary

Flagship Pioneering in Cambridge, MA seeks a Senior Research Associate to advance microbial strain engineering for recombinant protein production. You will join a hands-on team reporting to the Senior Scientist, Microbial Strain Engineering, contributing to genetic engineering in a fast-paced startup setting.

The ideal candidate has strong molecular biology skills, aseptic technique, and experience with DNA assembly, culture handling, and lab operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Hands-on molecular biology: design, isolation, and DNA assembly.
• Aseptic technique and microbial culture handling required.
• Strong communication, organization, and documentation skills.
• Independently execute experiments and troubleshoot process issues.

Responsibilities

• DNA design and plasmid assembly using Golden Gate or HiFi methods.
• Perform sequencing analysis with state-of-the-art NGS tools.
• Prepare plasmid DNA via mini- and maxi-preps.
• Prepare competent cells; perform PCR and genotyping.
• Screen strains in shake flasks and microtiter plates; track metrics.
• Maintain cell banks and inventory records; ensure lab safety.
• Collaborate with discovery and development teams on strain evaluation.

Skills

DNA design & assembly

Microbiology techniques

Aseptic technique

Experiment execution

Documentation & communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree (5–7 years)

Master’s degree (3–5 years)

Tools

Benchling

Geneious

Job description

Flagship Pioneering in Cambridge, MA seeks a Senior Research Associate to advance microbial strain engineering for recombinant protein production. You will join a hands-on team reporting to the Senior Scientist, Microbial Strain Engineering, contributing to genetic engineering in a fast-paced startup setting.

The ideal candidate has strong molecular biology skills, aseptic technique, and experience with DNA assembly, culture handling, and lab operations.