Senior Research Associate/Scientist - Molecular Biology and Enzyme Engineering

Birch Biosciences is a startup company based in Portland, Oregon that is developing new technology for plastic recycling. Conventional recycling methods are expensive, inefficient, and unsustainable. We’re developing a new approach to recycling complex plastics using engineered enzymes and synthetic biology that is low cost, efficient, and importantly, reduces the environmental impacts of plastic. Global demand for plastic is expected to triple by 2050, so our plastic problem is only going to get worse unless we do something about it! We are seeking passionate individuals to join us in building a company dedicated to tackling the challenges of plastic waste and making a lasting impact on our community and our environment.

Position overview:

We are seeking a full-time Senior Research Associate/Scientist to join our team, who will play a pivotal role in development and optimization of our core technology at Birch. You will apply your expertise in library generation, cloning, and enzyme engineering to further expand our in-house screening capabilities. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and adept at multitasking. If you are a self-starter that thrives in the unique challenges of a scrappy startup setting, we invite you to apply and become part of our growing Birch team.

Responsibilities:

• Perform molecular biology techniques including PCR, DNA cloning using Gibson or Golden Gate, and E. coli transformation to build enzyme variant libraries.
• Generate and analyze DNA sequencing data from techniques such as Sanger and NGS.
• Perform protein engineering and protein expression experiments.
• Conduct high-throughput 96-well plate based assays.
• Collect experimental data, conduct in-depth data analyses, and prepare comprehensive experimental reports to document findings.
• Manage lab supplies, prepare laboratory media and buffers, and ensure proper maintenance of laboratory equipment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field.
• 3+ years of laboratory experience directly related to the responsibilities of this position.
• Hands-on experience with modern molecular biology techniques, specializing in constructing plasmids and plasmid libraries in E. coli or other microbial systems.
• Experience in a high-throughput laboratory setting.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and prioritizing multiple tasks concurrently.
• Demonstrated capability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment, adapting swiftly to changing priorities.
• Meticulous attention to detail with a commitment to maintaining accuracy in all aspects of work.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for solving hard technical problems.

Nice-to-haves (but not required):

• Bioinformatics experience; programming (Python/R) and statistical analysis.
• Experience with NGS applications including sample preparation and sequencing analysis.

Title and compensation will be based on level of experience with requested qualifications and may range from Senior Research Associate to Scientist.

Compensation and benefits at Birch Biosciences include:

• Base Salary and Equity
• Flexible Time Off policy
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match

As we continue to grow, our benefits package will evolve. The benefits outlined above are accurate as of the job posting date, but may differ at time of hire.

If you don’t have all of the pre-requisite skills, experience or degrees, please send us an application—we’d love to evaluate your application and see if there is an opportunity for us to work together! Birch Biosciences is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion in the workspace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), genetic information, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law.

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.