Position Summary The ideal candidate is a hands-on Senior Scientist with strong experience in lab automation/robotics and/or molecular biology. The individual should be able to step quickly into an onsite role in a fast-paced protein engineering environment and demonstrate troubleshooting and workflow validation skills, accountability, organization, and independence. A PhD is preferred, but candidates with extensive industry experience are welcome. Experience with Hamilton scripting, Python, or NGS sequencing is a plus. Candidates must be comfortable with a short-term contract role and consistent onsite work.
Job Post We are seeking a highly motivated scientist. The ideal candidate will have a PhD and approximately 3–5 years of relevant experience with a strong molecular biology background and a balanced skill set in wet-lab experimentation and data analysis. Experience with Bioinformatics and laboratory automation and robotics is essential. Hamilton scripting is highly desirable. Python scripting is preferred but not required. Exposure to machine learning is a plus.
Key Responsibilities
Plan, conduct, monitor, analyze, and document experiments with limited supervision
Follow established experimental designs and protocols
Adapt methods from scientific literature and modify as needed
Develop and implement new protocols for automation integration
Interpret NGS sequencing data and communicate findings
Participate in scientific discussions and contribute to problem-solving
Develop systems and practices for high-quality data generation and organization
Operate, troubleshoot, and optimize lab equipment and instruments
Resolve experimental and equipment-related issues
Contribute to reports, presentations, publications, regulatory documents, invention disclosures, and patent submissions
Exercise judgment on when to work independently and when to seek input
Basic Qualifications
PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or related field
Approximately 3–5 years of relevant industry, academic, or postdoctoral experience
Strong molecular biology background
Experience independently conducting and troubleshooting experiments
Ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate experimental data
Preferred Qualifications
Balanced wet-lab and data analysis experience
Hands-on laboratory automation and robotics experience
Hamilton liquid handler scripting experience is highly desirable
Python scripting experience is desirable but not required
Familiarity with automation workflows in research or development
Doctorate degree (PhD OR PharmD OR MD) and 2 years of experience OR
Master’s degree and 5 years of experience OR
Bachelor’s degree and 7 years of experience
Top 3 Must-Have Skill Sets
Lab automation and robotics experience
Hands-on experience with automated liquid handling systems and robotic workflows
Hamilton experience is valuable
Strong troubleshooting and independent execution
Self-motivated, hands-on scientist able to take ownership and work with minimal supervision
Molecular biology expertise
Solid molecular biology background for developing, running, and optimizing assays
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Support automation and robotics-based workflows
Test, validate, and troubleshoot automated processes
Use scripting tools for workflow execution and reporting
Run Python-based scripts for project reporting and NGS sequence analysis
Support lab activities within the high-throughput yeast display workflow
Employee Value Proposition
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Possible Extension
Yes
Red Flags
Large employment gaps (1–2 years+)
Lack of hands-on automation/robotics experience
Weak troubleshooting or workflow validation experience
Limited Python/reporting/NGS support experience
Weak molecular biology fundamentals
Low ownership or motivation
Not interested in a 6-month temp role
Poor documentation and reporting habits
Preference for remote work
Interview Process
30-minute hiring manager screen
30-minute senior manager screen
Two 30-minute team panels assessing collaboration, communication, and day-to-day fit
Applicant Notices & Disclaimers
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At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position’s starting pay is: $ 90.00/hr.
