Strain Engineering Research Associate II/III/Senior

Description

Lygos is an industrial biotechnology company developing biobased sustainable solutions to improve everyday products. Our technology platform enables better economics and unlocks the power of organic acid specialty chemicals, enabling our partners to offer sustainable alternatives to legacy petroleum-based plastics, fragrances, home and personal care products, and more.

Position Description

Lygos is seeking an experienced Strain Engineering Research Associates to build and test new microbial strains for a variety of products. The successful applicant will have experience with molecular biology techniques, general lab procedures, sterile technique, data analysis/reporting, and will be comfortable working as part of a collaborative team in a fast paced and dynamic work environment. At the Senior level, the candidate will have experience with independent molecular biology/strain engineering method development and implementation, and preferably protein engineering activities. The candidate will work under the supervision of and report to strain engineering scientists. The candidate will also be expected to work collaboratively with Lygos’ fermentation, downstream processing and analytical departments. The Lygos team works closely with all employees to support career development and facilitate the learning of new skill sets. 

Responsibilities

• Design new DNA constructs and PCR primers for genome integration and plasmid-based expression using molecular biology software packages.
• Perform PCR, molecular cloning, and transformation to build large numbers of new microbial strains for production testing.
• Construct combinatorial libraries for protein engineering efforts.
• Validate strain and plasmid construction using PCR and DNA sequencing methodologies.
• Participate in the maintenance of Lygos’ strain collection and LIMS.
• Design experiments to screen production performance of new microbial strains and libraries and interpret resulting data.
• Engage in technical discussions and research planning and present results to internal audiences.
• Maintain good laboratory practices and participate in the development of standard operating protocols.
• Develop new analytical assays and associated protocols for in-house use.

Education and Experience Requirements

• B.S., M.S., or equivalent degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• 2+ years of post-degree in-lab molecular biology and/or microbiology experience (industrial preferred).
• Demonstrated success in technical proficiency, scientific creativity, and collaboration.
• Strong organization skills and proven ability to manage details. ‬
• Energetic, creative, team player.
• Experience in a synthetic biology/industrial biotechnology startup a plus.

Compensation and Benefits: Lygos offers highly competitive salaries, stock options, bonus and benefits, including medical and dental insurance, unlimited paid time off, and 401(k).

Salary range: $70,000 - $105,000  Actual pay will vary based on various factors, including but not limited to location, skill, experience, and performance.

The benefits and stock purchase described above are subject to the terms and conditions of any governing plans, policies, practices, agreements, or other materials or documents as in effect from time to time, including but not limited to terms and conditions regarding eligibility.

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.  Lygos may agree to sponsor an individual for an employment visa now or in the future if there is a shortage of individuals with particular skills for this job.  

Location information:

Lygos is headquartered in Berkeley, CA.   This position is currently based at our Berkeley, CA location and will move to our Hayward, CA location at the end of 2024.