Research Associate - Sumitomo Biorational Company

Sumitomo Biorational Company Synthetic Biology Position

Headquartered in Libertyville, Ill., Sumitomo Biorational Company is the Global Center of Excellence for Biorational Innovation, advancing integrated, science-driven solutions in agriculture, public health, forest health, and environmental markets. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Biorational operates through three divisions: AgroSolutions, Environmental Health (MGK), and Public Health & Forest Health, leveraging decades of expertise to drive innovation and sustainability for customers worldwide.

Job Description

This individual will join VBC's Synthetic Biology department and contribute to internal metabolic engineering efforts in a variety of host microbial organisms, including prokaryotes and eukaryotes. This position will report to a Sr. Research Associate in Synthetic Biology.

Principal Responsibilities

• Coordinate and conduct all work in strict compliance with applicable safety requirements, containment requirements, standard operating practices, and/or guidelines.
• Assist in the design, build, screen/test, and cultivation of model and non-model organisms including bacteria, yeast, and fungi.
• Perform routine strain engineering workflows and general molecular biology procedures, including DNA and RNA isolation and purification, PCR, sequencing, ligation, assembly, chemical and electrical transformations, and conjugation.
• Development of high-throughput assays, including the design and implementation of plate-based growth assays using Agilent BioTek instruments.
• Perform batch fermentations in either microtiter plates or flasks and prepare samples for submission for downstream organic extraction.
• Support team members by preparing specific solid and liquid media, buffers and reagents to support synthetic biology workflows. Assist with QC and data collection as requested.
• Accurate and well-organized record keeping of all experimental work for the development of SOPs and maintenance of an electronic laboratory notebook.
• Prepare comprehensive slide presentations summarizing key points and results, effectively communicate findings to a larger audience as needed.
• Maintenance of the laboratory including general housekeeping functions, inventory maintenance and organization, and equipment upkeep.
• Assist in the onboarding of research technicians by overseeing training of general lab operations and molecular biology procedures, organizing a clear training schedule and coordinating with other lab members as needed.

Required Skills/Experience

• Passion for the expanding field of synthetic biology, especially as it relates to the development of novel products and sustainable solutions.
• Experience in microbial cultivation of E. coli and other hosts.
• Candidates with experience in one of the following: gram positive bacteria, automation tools or procedures, high-throughput assay or workflow would be preferred.
• Biotechnology software experience, such as Geneious and Snapgene is a plus.
• Works well in teams, especially with synthetic biology and microbiology group members but also across other research department functions.
• Strong communication, presentation and listening skills.
• Must be a self-starter with good organizational skills and detail-oriented.
• Will foster a culture of diversity and inclusion.

Education

BS/MS in Biology, Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or Biochemistry with 1-2 years of relevant experience in a research environment.

Travel

Limited travel will be required. (<5%)

What We Offer

We recognize that compensation and benefits play a crucial role in your career decisions. That's why we're dedicated to equitable pay practices and transparency in how we reward our employees.

Base Salary: The estimated annual base salary for this position ranges from $31.00 to $37.25. Individual pay is based upon location, skills, experience, and other relevant factors.

Incentives: All full-time employees are eligible for an incentive program or profit-sharing program in addition to their base salary.

• High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans
• 5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus
• Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions
• Financial assistance programs to support your goals
• Life and disability insurance for added security
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

At Sumitomo Biorational Company, we're proud to power a sustainable future through our work. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been at the core of our culture since the beginning. Today, they continue to drive everything we do.

Join us in making a meaningful impact and contributing to a better world.

• Sumitomo Biorational Company is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and/or identity, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.