Associate Molecular Biologist/Microbiologist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Purpose:  

Are you ready to make a meaningful difference in public health and national security? We're seeking an innovative, highly motivated, skilled biologist (MS or PhD level) to join our biological science research and development team in Austin, Texas. You will play a pivotal role in developing and optimizing cutting-edge laboratory assays for pathogen detection, leveraging your expertise in molecular biology, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis. You will utilize state-of-the-art synthetic biology to create applied solutions for critical public health needs. If you are passionate about applying your scientific knowledge and technical creativity to solve critical real-world challenges, we encourage you to apply!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and optimize novel laboratory assays for the detection and characterization of pathogens.
• Independently design and execute laboratory experiments
• Troubleshoot issues, solve difficult technical issues, and analyze data using industry best practices.
• Perform DNA sequencing and conduct basic bioinformatic analysis of sequencing data.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Identify novel research directions and potential funding opportunities. 
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and documentation.
• Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.
• Present research findings at internal and external meetings.
• Stay current with the scientific literature and advancements in the field.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and publications.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree (with 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience) or a master’s degree in biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in standard molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qPCR, nucleic acid extraction, and gel electrophoresis.
• Proven experience in the development, optimization, or validation of laboratory assays.
• Familiarity with DNA sequencing technologies, especially Nanopore systems, and a strong understanding of sequencing workflows.
• Familiarity with basic bioinformatic tools and analysis pipelines for sequence data (e.g., sequence alignment, taxonomical classification, database searching).
• Experience working in a laboratory environment with a strong understanding of safety protocols and quality control procedures.
• Excellent record-keeping and documentation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective technical communication and collaboration skills.

Education/Experience:

B.S. or M.S. in molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, clinical laboratory sciences, genetics, microbial ecology or microbial genomics

Certificates and Licenses:

None

Clearance:

This position requires that the candidate be willing and able to complete a successful background screening for a security clearance. Candidates with an active security clearance will receive preference.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

No staff supervisory responsibilities will be expected.

Working Conditions/ Equipment:

This is a full-time, fully on-site position. This position primarily operates during standard business hours, with occasional needs for extended workdays or weekend work to meet project timelines. A significant portion of this role (approximately 50%) involves hands-on laboratory work. You should be comfortable spending extended periods standing while conducting experiments and sitting while working at a computer. The role may also require occasional domestic travel for conferences, trade shows, or research-related meetings. The ability to lift and carry light loads (under 25 lbs) without assistance is necessary.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position.  Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.