Senior Research Associate, Analytical Genomics

JOB PURPOSE

We are looking for a Senior Research Associate to join the Analytical Genomics team at Sana. The successful candidate will contribute to the development and implementation of robust and reproducible NGS-based assays across the company. This researcher should be passionate about adapting existing methods and developing innovative methods to solve exciting and challenging problems in cell and gene therapy. This person should be a team player and good at communication and documentation.

The ideal candidate should have a technical background in molecular biology, genetics, genomics or biomedical engineering. Prior experience with general molecular biology techniques, such as PCR and nucleic acids extraction, is required. Prior experience with NGS library prep and operating Illumina sequencers is a plus. The ability to work in a highly collaborative environment and a team first mind-set will be required to succeed in this position.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, implement, and optimize NGS-based methods with appropriate experimental controls under manager supervision. This includes optimization and modification of existing kits and protocols, and troubleshooting issues that arise with assay development
• Work independently to execute on NGS protocols, standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques
• Preparation of NGS libraries and operation of NGS sequencers on a regular basis
• Perform cell biology techniques e.g. cell culture, to implement genomic assays
• Help develop QC metrics for assays to reduce time and cost associated with sequencing
• Write up experimental results in an electronic lab notebook, maintain good lab notebook procedures, and ensure data and reports are properly recorded
• Collaborate with the automation team to test and validate liquid handler assisted workflows
• Help in the operation and maintenance of the Analytical Genomics lab and equipment
• Demonstrate Sana's core values and the attributes that support these core values (Lead from every seat, Thrive as a team, Make it happen)

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, genetics, or related field plus 4 years, or master's degree with 2 years of relevant experience in the life sciences or biopharma industry
• Strong candidates with less experience may be considered at a Research Associate level
• Minimum of 2 years of in-depth hands-on laboratory experience with molecular biology techniques (PCR, nucleic acid extraction and quantification)
• Prior experience designing and documenting experiments
• Outstanding attention to detail and ability to assess technical protocols
• Demonstrated success working and collaborating in a team setting
• Ability to handle several fast-paced projects concurrently
• Must be detail oriented, self-motivated, flexible, and able to prioritize and manage several fast-paced projects concurrently
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
• The candidate should be collaborative, a team player and demonstrate curiosity
• Ability to engage in crucial conversations - providing and receiving feedback
• Working safely in person on a predictable and regular in-person basis is an essential job function for this position and the Company requires that all individuals working in-person, subject to certain exceptions, be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2 years of hands-on experience with NGS library prep and Illumina sequencer operation
• Experience with cell biology techniques, such as cell culture, transfection, flow cytometry etc.
• Experience utilizing liquid handling robots and plate readers

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Regularly stand, sit, transition from standing to sitting, walk, bend, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing around 20 pounds
• Perform repetitive tasks, such as pipetting of reagents

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The job description listed above is representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

At Sana, we believe that a diverse workforce strengthens us as a company and helps us to achieve our mission to meaningfully change the outcome of many human diseases. This belief is a pillar of our business and is critical to our success. Our goal is that Sana is the place for talented people to bring their authentic selves to work, to have a great career and to deeply, positively impact patients.

The Company is committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental or sensory disability (including the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability), genetic information, actual or perceived HIV or Hepatitis C infection, medical condition (cancer or a record or history of cancer and genetic characteristics), marital status, sexual orientation, sexual preference, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), disability, veteran status, political ideology, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Core to our values, we believe there is nothing more important than the health and wellness of you and your family. We cover 100% of the cost for employee health coverage and offer generous time-off, parental leave, short and long term disability, financial wellness programs, a 401(k) Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, commuter subsidy and a variety of wellness offerings to support each person individually.