R&D Associate I - Product Discovery - University of Massachusetts Medical School

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION: 

The R&D Associate I - Product Discovery will be responsible for research and/or development to support early discovery and pre-clinical development of novel biotherapeutics. The ideal candidate will function in a cutting-edge laboratory environment as part of a multi-disciplinary team of protein engineers, immunologists, molecular biologists, and protein biochemists to discover novel therapeutics with opportunity to develop cGMP or GLP compliant skills in an industrial laboratory setting.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Drive translational research and development efforts by conducting experiments alongside R&D Scientists in the drug discovery department.
• Conduct a wide range of biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology techniques to express, purify and characterize drug candidates (e.g. DNA/RNA isolation, plasmid construction, PCR, Octet, HPLC, mammalian cell culture, transient and stable transfections).
• Perform in vitro assays to evaluate efficacy of drug candidates (e.g. ELISA, flow cytometry, cell proliferation, anti-microbial assays).
• Assist experimental set up in small rodent animal models.
• Analyze data and generate thorough documentation of work according to MassBiologics standards. Present written/oral reports in team meetings or other project meetings.
• Maintain laboratory environment following all precautions required for a BSL2/BSL2+ setting. Troubleshoot malfunctioning equipment and techniques within scope of training.
• Effectively communicate and work cross-functionally as a part of internal and external project teams.
• Performs additional job related duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field.
• Minimum 0-2 years of relevant experience
• Ability to follow instructions precisely , recognize deviations, and recommend corrective action within scope of training
• Ability to troubleshoot within scope of training
• Computer literate and proficient in MS Word, Excel and other relevant electronic systems.
• Strong time management and organizational skills. Demonstrated ability to multitask and consistently meet deadlines
• Ability to apply scientific principles to problem solving
• Possesses well developed attention to detail, ability to maintain accurate records and excellent proofreading skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with others
• Demonstrated initiative through past experience
• Working knowledge on protein purification and hands-on experience on chromatography workstations preferred
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team
• May require individual to work extended hours on occasion to meet business needs