Research Associate I

Overview

ArkeaBio is a pioneer in developing technology to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the agricultural sector. Backed by Breakthrough Energy Ventures, ArkeaBio is using innovative vaccine technologies to create solutions to reduce the on-farm methane emissions responsible for 6% of global GHG emissions. ArkeaBio technology will be integrated into proven delivery systems and farming practices to safely reduce global methane emissions from multiple ruminant species across a variety of geographies and agronomic systems.

Job Summary

This role is an integral part of the Science + Technical Team at ArkeaBio. This is a unique opportunity to directly impact the technical progress of the company by generating essential data, while also helping to establish and implement operational policies to maintain systems, ordering, inventory, equipment, and safety.

Description

The Research Associate I will report to the Head of Screening + Selection and is responsible for executing and improving on experimental protocols, including strain characterization and binding assays. Additionally, the Research Associate will work cross functionally with our Facilities Operation Team, completing the work necessary to keep the lab operating safely, effectively, and efficiently within our new 13,000 sq ft lab space.

Key Responsibilities

Key responsibilities of the Research Associate 1 include:

• Following complex SOPs associated with experimental workflows to generate materials and produce data, while maintaining organized and detailed written records in accordance with regulatory needs
• Preparing and presenting scientific findings to the organization in support of vaccine candidate advancement into clinical development
• Managing shipping and receiving for lab supplies, consumables, chemicals, gasses, equipment, and other applicable lab deliverables
• Maintaining inventory and ordering for all lab standard supplies, consumables, and media purchases
• Managing the flow of glasswash/ autoclave needs to support the lab by operating the glass wash, preparing materials for autoclaving, and sterilizing
• Preparing media and other reagents, including documentation and quality control
• Following safe protocols for the receipt, handling, and disposal of chemicals, biohazards, and other potentially hazardous materials
• Assisting the chemical hygiene officer (CHO) as necessary, including but not limited to conducting documented safety inspections of laboratory areas
• Adhering to all SOPs, environmental, health, and safety (EHS) requirements, including EHS audits
• Escorting vendors onsite as needed
• Performing other duties, as may be assigned

Qualifications/ Skills

• A degree in the biological sciences, along with practical experience in a laboratory setting.
• Excellent communication skills, problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational skills; ability to communicate findings and knowledge across the organization.
• Experience with PCR and sequencing is a plus.
• Experience with flow cytometry is a plus.
• Comfortable working on fast-paced, combined local and remote teams.
• Knowledge of quality assurance practices and procedures.
• Understanding of lab operations as well as policies and procedures.
• Proven ability to problem-solve/ troubleshoot and provide solutions under minimal supervision.
• Ability to handle the physical requirements of the position.
• Curiosity with a passion for learning.
• Proficient in Google Suite, Microsoft Suite, Prendio, Zoom, Benchling.
• Strong organizational, multitasking, and planning skills.

ArkeaBio is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its practices, especially when it comes to growing our team. Our culture promotes inclusion and embraces the personal and organizational benefits of working with people from all walks of life.

It is the policy of ArkeaBio to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and employment applicants.

For Full-Time employees, ArkeaBio offers 100% paid health, vision, dental and life insurance, up to a 4% matching contribution to a 401(k) retirement account and unlimited paid time off.

ArkeaBio has a 13,000 square foot lab in Charlestown, MA, and offers a flexible work environment.