Associate Scientist: Oligonucleotide Chemistry - job 2 of 3

As an Associate Scientist: Oligonucleotide Chemistry at Eurofins, your main responsibilities include synthesizing oligonucleotides using automated synthesizers, purifying them with techniques such as FPLC and HPLC, and performing analytical assays like LC-MS to verify the quality of the synthesized compounds. You’ll also maintain thorough documentation to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and contribute to lab maintenance and inventory management.

To qualify for the Associate Scientist: Oligonucleotide Chemistry role at Eurofins, candidates should have either a Bachelor’s degree with 2-6 years of experience or a Master’s degree with 2-3 years of experience. Hands-on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, along with proficiency in operating automated synthesizers and conducting LC-MS analysis, is essential. Strong communication and organizational skills are also crucial for success in this role.

At Eurofins, new hires for the Associate Scientist: Oligonucleotide Chemistry position will benefit from a comprehensive training program. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside experienced chemists who will provide guidance on protocols, techniques, and equipment usage. Additionally, you will assist in training others over time, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment that enhances your skills and expertise.

The work environment at Eurofins for the Associate Scientist: Oligonucleotide Chemistry role is dynamic and collaborative. You’ll be part of a team that values problem-solving and innovation, working in a fast-paced lab equipped with state-of-the-art technology. We emphasize professional growth and achievement, ensuring that our employees can flourish while maintaining a good balance between work and personal life.

As an Associate Scientist: Oligonucleotide Chemistry at Eurofins, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with company matching, paid vacation, and holidays. We also offer life and disability insurance, reflecting our commitment to supporting the well-being of our employees while fostering a healthy work-life balance.

When answering this question, highlight your hands-on experience with solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, detailing specific projects you worked on, the techniques you used, and any challenges you overcame. It’s also a good opportunity to discuss your familiarity with automated synthesizers and how you ensure accuracy in your work.

Be prepared to discuss techniques such as FPLC and HPLC. Explain how each technique operates, focusing on their applications in oligonucleotide purification and any specific experiences you have had using these methods to achieve desirable outcomes in your work.

Discuss the importance of precise documentation in scientific research and share your methods for maintaining accurate records. Highlight your experience in complying with regulatory requirements and any specific systems or practices you have used to ensure flawless documentation.

Share a specific incident where you encountered an unexpected issue. Detail the steps you took to troubleshoot, the thought process behind your approach, and what the outcome was. This showcases your problem-solving skills and ability to stay focused under pressure.

Explain your organizational strategies and time-management skills, citing any tools or techniques you use to prioritize your workload. You can also give examples of how you have successfully managed multiple projects or lab tasks simultaneously.

Discuss the significance of teamwork in your experience, emphasizing how collaboration has led to successful outcomes in your projects. Share examples of how you have contributed to team discussions and supported your colleagues.

Mention your understanding of standard laboratory safety practices, including proper handling of chemicals and hazardous materials. It's beneficial to discuss any specific protocols you have implemented to maintain a safe lab environment.

Detail your experience with various analytical techniques, particularly LC-MS. Explain how you utilize these methods to evaluate the quality and identity of synthesized oligonucleotides, showcasing your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities.

Convey your commitment to ongoing learning by discussing the resources you use to keep up with advancements, such as research journals, professional networks, conferences, or workshops. This demonstrates your dedication to the field and eagerness to apply new knowledge at Eurofins.

Express your passion for this area of chemistry, mentioning the potential applications of oligonucleotides in therapeutics and diagnostics. Connect your enthusiasm to the impactful work being done at Eurofins and how you hope to contribute to such projects.