Senior Scientist, siRNA Screening Automation and Molecular Analytics
AbbVie · Worcester, MA · 3 wk ago
Information Technology$110k–$209k/yrFull-time
About the role
The Senior Scientist will support the development and operation of a high-throughput siRNA screening platform. This role will focus on automation-enabled screening workflows and data analysis.
Responsibilities
- Lead execution of high-throughput siRNA screening workflows using automated liquid-handling and other laboratory automation systems.
- Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot automated methods for sample preparation workflows, including RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, and RNA-seq library preparation.
- Design and execute experiments to evaluate siRNA activity, potency, and selectivity using molecular biology assay platforms.
- Establish and maintain data analysis workflows for screening datasets, including assay QC, normalization, hit assessment, and interpretation of experimental results.
- Drive development and implementation of next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based strategies using automation for gene expression profiling.
- Partner with different groups, cross-functional scientists, and bioinformatics to support analysis and interpretation of large screening and sequencing datasets.
- Contribute to the improvement, standardization, and documentation of screening workflows, assay protocols, and automation procedures.
- Identify technical issues proactively and implement solutions to improve assay robustness, throughput, and reproducibility.
- Present results clearly to project teams and platform leadership, and contribute to scientific discussions, experimental planning, and strategy.
- Mentor junior scientists or research associates as needed and contribute to a collaborative, high-performing laboratory environment.
Requirements
- BS, MS, or PhD in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Bioengineering, or a related discipline with typically 0-4+ years (PhD), 8-10+ years (MS), or 10-12+ years (BS) of relevant biotech or pharmaceutical industry experience.
- Strong hands-on experience with laboratory automation, high-throughput screening workflows, and coding for automation systems.
- Deep experience with RNA extraction and RT-qPCR assay development, execution, and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with NGS workflows for library construction and gene expression profiling, including integration of automation with NGS library preparation or other downstream molecular workflows.
- Experience with siRNA screening, oligonucleotide therapeutics, or RNA biology strongly preferred.
- Familiarity with scripting, data processing tools, or bioinformatics collaboration models.
- Prior experience supporting platform buildout in a matrixed drug discovery environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
Qualifications
- BS, MS, or PhD in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Bioengineering, or a related discipline with typically 0-4+ years (PhD), 8-10+ years (MS), or 10-12+ years (BS) of relevant biotech or pharmaceutical industry experience.
- Strong hands-on experience with laboratory automation, high-throughput screening workflows, and coding for automation systems.
- Deep experience with RNA extraction and RT-qPCR assay development, execution, and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with NGS workflows for library construction and gene expression profiling, including integration of automation with NGS library preparation or other downstream molecular workflows.
- Experience with siRNA screening, oligonucleotide therapeutics, or RNA biology strongly preferred.
- Familiarity with scripting, data processing tools, or bioinformatics collaboration models.
- Prior experience supporting platform buildout in a matrixed drug discovery environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
Skills
- Hands-on experience with laboratory automation, high-throughput screening workflows, and coding for automation systems.
- Deep experience with RNA extraction and RT-qPCR assay development, execution, and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with NGS workflows for library construction and gene expression profiling, including integration of automation with NGS library preparation or other downstream molecular workflows.
- Experience with siRNA screening, oligonucleotide therapeutics, or RNA biology.
- Familiarity with scripting, data processing tools, or bioinformatics collaboration models.
- Prior experience supporting platform buildout in a matrixed drug discovery environment.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).
- Participation in short-term and long-term incentive programs.
Pay
$109,500 - $208,500 USD
Schedule
Full-time