Position: Research Scientist - Applications and Collaborations

Position Type: Full-Time Employee

Department: Research & Development

Location: Boulder, CO

Experience: BA/BS with 6+ years experience, or MS with 4+ years experience, or PhD with 0-2+ years experience

Position Summary

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Research Scientist, to report to an Associate Director based in Boulder, Colorado.

The post will be responsible for generation of innovative and impactful publication-quality customer-facing data and marketing collateral, and will participate in external scientific collaborations which may include custom product development. This individual will be responsible for planning, executing, and documenting experimental protocols and will work closely with the broader scientific and commercial teams to prepare data for external consumption. The scope of experimentation will cover Watchmaker’s full product suite, from engineered enzymes through kits for next generation sequencing (NGS). Quality of work is of paramount importance as results will be directed to external audiences. Data generated by this individual may be presented at conferences and/or in peer-reviewed literature, in webinars, marketing brochures, on the website, or directly to customers. The candidate will also have the opportunity to mentor junior scientists.

The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success. The position provides an opportunity to grow and develop as a scientist and gain valuable experience in the intersection of experimental science and technical marketing. Direct interaction with customers and Key Opinion Leaders is also an opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with research scientists, marketing professionals, and scientific collaborators to design and perform molecular biology experiments including: enzyme characterization, PCR, RT-qPCR, next-generation sequencing, and sample preparation
• Carefully interpret data and accurately document the details of all experiments in an electronic lab notebook
• Participate in customer collaborations which may include custom product development
• Contribute to the generation of marketing materials
• Explore new applications of existing and prospective products

Skills and Requirements

The candidate should hold a BS, MS or PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry or a related discipline. Experience in the following areas is considered highly desirable: PCR, qPCR, DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes. Knowledge of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and related applications is a plus. Customer facetime experience is a plus.

The following skills and experience are requirements for the position:

• Demonstrated ability to plan, execute and interpret molecular biology lab work
• Strong writing skills with ability to record and communicate scientific content
• The ability to multitask and perform consistently under pressure
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to work as an effective member of a team
• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qPCR, sample purification and QC; NGS library construction experience is a plus
• Excellent organizational skills and outstanding attention to detail
• Good communication and personal task management skills and a high level of self-motivation

Compensation

The budgeted range for this position starts at $83,000-$97,000 + bonus + equity; actual pay will be adjusted based on skills and experience. Employees are eligible for Flexible Time Off, Holidays, employer covers 75% of base medical plan with buy-up options, EAP (employee assistance program), employer paid dental, employer paid vision, employer paid $25,000 life/AD&D policy, paid parental leave, and a 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% match.

Application Requirements

To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on watchmakergenomics.com:

• Letter of motivation (upload where it says cover letter)
• Resume or Curriculum vitae, highlighting relevant qualifications and experience

Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered. Local candidates preferred.

If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested.

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WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law.

All applicants will be asked if currently eligible to work in the United States of America; and if now or in the future will require visa sponsorship to continue working in the United States.

This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.