What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bench Scientist position at Aequor?
Job Title: Bench Scientist II – Molecular Biology / DNA Production
Location: Cambridge, MA (Onsite)
Duration: 24 Months Contract
Industry: Biopharmaceutical / Biotechnology
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Bench Scientist II to join a fast-paced DNA Production and Protein Expression team in Cambridge, MA. This position is ideal for candidates with hands-on experience in molecular biology, plasmid DNA production, bacterial culture, and DNA quality control within a biotech, pharmaceutical, or CRO environment.
The successful candidate will support high-throughput DNA production workflows that enable protein expression and downstream therapeutic research programs. This is an excellent opportunity to work with advanced laboratory technologies, including automation and liquid handling systems, while contributing to cutting-edge biotherapeutic development.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform high-throughput plasmid DNA production, including bacterial culture, plasmid purification, and sample processing.
- Execute DNA quality control assays, including gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid quantification, purity analysis, and endotoxin testing.
- Prepare and submit samples for sequencing and support basic data review.
- Operate and troubleshoot automated laboratory instruments and liquid handling systems.
- Maintain DNA inventory, sample storage, and tracking using electronic systems.
- Document experiments and results accurately using electronic lab notebooks (ELN).
- Collaborate with protein expression and purification teams to meet project timelines.
- Support process improvements to increase laboratory efficiency and throughput.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, or a related life sciences field.
- Minimum 2 years of hands-on industry experience in:
- Plasmid DNA preparation and purification
- Molecular biology techniques
- Bacterial culture and transformation
- DNA quantification and quality control
- Experience with gel electrophoresis and sequencing sample preparation.
- Familiarity with electronic lab notebooks (ELN) and sample tracking systems.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to thrive in a high-throughput, production-focused laboratory environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with automated liquid handling platforms such as OpenTrons, Tecan, Biomek, or Biotage.
- Experience with NGS workflows or sequencing technologies.
- Familiarity with LIMS, FreezerPro, or Genedata.
- Exposure to scripting or workflow automation (Python is a plus).
- Experience with 96-well or 384-well high-throughput workflows.
Ideal Candidate
- Hands-on experience in DNA production workflows.
- Strong molecular biology background.
- Comfortable performing repetitive, detail-oriented laboratory work.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Eager to learn and adapt to new technologies and automated systems.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply or share their updated resume for immediate consideration.