Bench Scientist II - DNA Production

Job Title: Bench Scientist II – DNA Production

Location : Cambridge, MA 02139

100% onsite

Duration : 24 Months Contract

Pay Rate: $37-$40/hr on w2 (with no benefits)

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Bench Scientist II to support a growing DNA production group in Cambridge. This position has been created due to increased production demand and will play a critical role in supporting high-throughput plasmid DNA production for protein expression and purification activities.

The successful candidate will join a fast-paced research environment focused on non-GMP DNA production and protein expression workflows. While much of the work is production-oriented and repetitive in nature, the team is actively adopting new technologies including laboratory automation, liquid handling systems, scripting tools, and 3D printing, providing opportunities for technical growth and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently execute high-throughput plasmid DNA production workflows, including: Bacterial culture growth, Plasmid purification, Downstream sample handling
• Perform large-scale DNA production activities following established protocols.
• Support protein expression and purification programs through timely DNA production.
• Conduct DNA quality control testing, including: Gel electrophoresis, Nucleic acid quantification, Purity assessment, Endotoxin testing
• Prepare and submit samples for next-generation sequencing (NGS).
• Assist with basic review and interpretation of sequencing data.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot automated laboratory instruments and liquid handling systems, including: Biotage, Opentrons and other automated or semi-automated platforms
• Manage plasmid inventory, sample storage, and tracking within electronic databases.
• Maintain accurate documentation using electronic lab notebooks (ELNs).
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety and documentation standards.
• Partner with expression and purification scientists to support downstream workflows.
• Contribute to process improvements that enhance throughput, reproducibility, and efficiency.
• Communicate project status, priorities, and risks to ensure production timelines are met.
• Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in: Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences and related Life Science discipline
• Master's degree with relevant experience may be considered.

Experience

• Minimum 2+ years of industry experience in molecular biology, biotechnology, or related laboratory environments.
• Hands-on experience with DNA production workflows (required).
• Experience with: Plasmid preparation and purification, Nucleic acid purification and analysis, Quantitative DNA analysis and Bacterial cell culture systems
• Proficiency in DNA quality control techniques, including gel electrophoresis and sequencing sample preparation.
• Experience operating automated or semi-automated laboratory instrumentation.
• Familiarity with electronic lab notebooks and sample tracking systems.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a high-throughput environment.
• High attention to detail during repetitive, production-focused tasks.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Commitment to laboratory safety and compliance standards.
• Comfortable working in a routine, process-driven laboratory setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in CROs, biopharmaceutical, or production-focused laboratory environments.
• Experience with laboratory automation and liquid handling platforms such as: Opentrons, Tecan, Biomek, Biotage
• Experience with NGS library preparation and sequencing workflows.
• Familiarity with Nanopore or in-house sequencing technologies.
• Experience working with high-throughput plate-based workflows (96- or 384-well formats).
• Knowledge of LIMS or sample management platforms such as: FreezerPro, Genedata
• Familiarity with Python scripting for data analysis or workflow automation.
• Exposure to scripting, automation, or technology development tools.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Have direct experience with DNA production workflows and production laboratory operations.
• Be highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Thrive in a high-throughput, production-focused environment.
• Be comfortable performing routine and repetitive laboratory work while maintaining quality and accuracy.
• Demonstrate adaptability and interest in learning new technologies and automation tools.
• Possess strong communication skills and the ability to coordinate across multiple stakeholders.
• Bring experience from automation-driven or high-throughput laboratory settings (preferred).