ABOUT WILLOW BIOSCIENCES:

Our multidisciplinary team of world-leading discovery biologists, biochemists, geneticists, and fermentation process engineers are dedicated to harnessing the therapeutic potential of plants. We are applying our unique design-build process and our proven track record to the biosynthesis of cannabinoids. 

JOIN OUR TEAM:

Willow Biosciences is a company where people truly believe in what they are doing. Our team is committed to developing high-purity, plant derived compounds for the treatment of pain, anxiety, obesity, brain disorders, among other significant indications. We work hard, we are serious about what we do, and we like to have fun too.

POSITION: RESEARCH ASSISTANT, ASSAY & ANALYTICS

We are seeking an experienced Research Assistant (Assay & Analytics) who will contribute to the metabolic engineering of biosynthetic pathways in microorganisms, particularly yeast. This individual will have strong analytical skills, working knowledge of assay development and practical experience with automation workflows for HTP screening.

EDUCATION: BS or MSc in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field.

EXPERIENCE: 1+ years’ experience in a high throughput environment working with quantitative analytical techniques, (HPLC and mass spectrometry) and operating lab automation equipment such as liquid handling robotics in an industrial research setting (Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical, or Life Sciences Industries). Experience working with yeast strongly preferred.

POSITION: This position is for a highly motivated and experienced individual with a strong desire to work in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment. This individual will work under the guidance of scientists to develop high throughput biological assays for the analytical detection and quantification of molecules of interest, including enzyme purification and further characterization. Responsibilities will include assisting in the design of experiments; creating & optimizing protocols; collecting & processing data; participation in a rapid Design/Build/Test/Learn cycle with other lab scientists to meet company goals/milestones.

• Hands on experience working with lab automation equipment such as robotic liquid handlers (e.g. Agilent Bravo), automated colony picker, incubators/ shakers and other standard laboratory analytical equipment.
• Work with scientists to conduct HTP screening using various techniques such as HPLC and mass spectrophotometry with various detection methods (MS, UV/Vis, RI, FID, etc.), including preparation of reagents and samples, instrument calibration, operation, and maintenance.
• Work with scientists to develop, validate and execute methods for detection, quantification, and characterization of enzymes in microbial metabolic pathways engineered yeast strains.
• Apply a broad range of standard analytical methods to QC and test strains with other scientists.
• Propose continual process improvements for efficiency and quality.
• Maintain timely documentation of laboratory work.
• Create and maintain analytical documents (HTP automation workflows) including SOP’s.
• Effectively communicate/present work and analysis to audiences with diverse technical backgrounds.
• Offer strategic recommendations based on interpretation of data for subsequent strain engineering decisions.
• Work in partnership with lab scientists (strain engineers, computational biologists, and fermentation scientists) to identify, develop, and apply new synthetic biology & genome engineering tools to meet company goals/milestones.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Outstanding team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Capable of high performance in independent work as well as in team setting.
• A strong desire to grow as a scientific researcher, learn new techniques and adopt new technologies for process improvements.
• Attention to detail, good laboratory practice and maintenance of a high degree of accuracy while working in high throughput.
• Experience working with LIMS (preferred).
• Proficiency with MS Office suite.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods
• Performing repetitive tasks with hands, fingers, and wrists
• Use of standard lab PPE (lab coats, safety glasses and gloves)

POSITION TYPE

• Full-time position

TRAVEL 

• Not required

WORK AUTHORIZATION 

• Authorized to work in the US.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary package, 401k, healthcare benefits, medical, vision & dental
• Paid vacation and company holidays
• Life / AD&D, Short-term and Long-term Disability Insurance
• Opportunities for professional development 
• Snacks, weekly lunch, company, and team wide social events

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT

Willow Biosciences is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.  We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics.  All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.