Molecular Biologist II – Analyst II

About the role

The Molecular Biologist II will support an ion channel drug discovery group focused on pain research. The role involves generating DNA constructs, developing cell lines, and assisting with fluorescence‑based pharmacology assays.

Key responsibilities

• Design and generate DNA constructs for wild‑type and mutant ion channels, including site‑directed mutagenesis.
• Perform standard molecular cloning techniques (PCR, restriction digestion, ligation, plasmid prep) and verify constructs by gel electrophoresis and sequencing.
• Culture mammalian cell lines, conduct transient and stable transfections, and create cell lines for electrophysiology and assay development.
• Support optimization of fluorescence‑based assays (e.g., FLIPR, dye‑based ion flux) and conduct DNA/RNA expression analysis.
• Maintain accurate electronic lab notebook records and collaborate with electrophysiologists and pharmacologists.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry or related field.
• Minimum two years of hands‑on experience with molecular biology and mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Strong attention to detail, good work ethic, and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.

Required skills

• Mammalian cell culture (transient and stable transfection).
• Molecular cloning, PCR, restriction digestion, gel electrophoresis, plasmid preparation.
• Site‑directed mutagenesis and DNA sequence analysis.
• Fluorescence‑based assay formats (FLIPR, dye‑based assays) – plus.
• qPCR and other DNA/RNA expression analysis methods.
• Proficiency with Windows, Microsoft Word and Excel.