ABOUT WILLOW BIOSCIENCES:

Our multidisciplinary team of world-leading discovery biologists, biochemists and geneticists is dedicated to harnessing the therapeutic potential of plants. We have developed the only fully-integrated synthetic biology solution for opioid biosynthesis and are now leveraging our unique design-build process and our proven track record to the biosynthesis of cannabinoids.

POSITION, ASSAY & ANALYTICS SCIENTIST

We are seeking an experienced Scientist (Assay and Analytics) to develop, validate and execute various analytical methods to enable biosynthetic production of plant derived molecules using microorganisms such as yeast. This individual will have strong analytical skills and in-depth knowledge of assay development, biostatistics, metabolic engineering as well as practical experience with automation workflows for HTP screening.

EDUCATION:

MS/PhD in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering or a related field.

Experience: 2+ years’ experience with quantitative analytical techniques, in particular HPLC and mass spectrometry; lab automation equipment such as liquid handling robotics; and proficiency in working with standard analytical laboratory software (e.g. Agilent) 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 develop high throughput biological assays for the analytical detection and quantification of molecules of interest, including enzyme purification and further characterization. Responsibilities will include: developing and implementing analytical methodologies to identify, extract, derivatize, and quantify pathway intermediates and products/by-products in engineered yeast strains; recommendation of improved variants for subsequent rounds of evolution; participation in a rapid Design/Build/Test/Learn cycle with other lab scientists to meet company goals/milestones.

JOB DESCRIPTION

● Develop, validate and execute methods for detection, quantification and characterization of enzymes in microbial metabolic pathways.

● Conduct HTP sample analysis using various techniques such as HPLC and mass spectrophotometry with various detection methods (MS, UV/Vis, RI, FID, Triple Quad MS experience highly desirable), including preparation of reagents and samples, instrument calibration, operation and maintenance.

● Operate HTP screening instruments such as automated colony picker, liquid handlers, incubators/ shakers and other standard laboratory analytical equipment.

● Develop and validate appropriately tiered screens and selection methods to accelerate engineering of key enzymes/strains with improved properties.

● 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.

● Mentor Research Associates.

● Evaluate new technologies and instrumentation that will further advance/enable project goals.

● 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.

● Proficiency with MS Office suite

POSITION TYPE

• Full-time position

TRAVEL 

• No

WORK AUTHORIZATION 

• The ability to legally work in Canada (as a citizen, resident or holding a current and valid work permit) at time of hire.

BENEFITS AND PERKS:

• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience
• Paid vacation and eligibility to participate in company bonus and stock option plans
• Healthcare benefits – medical, vision, dental
• Flexible schedule
• Opportunities for professional development
• Snacks, and company/team wide social events (COVID dependent activities)

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 on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.