Protein Expression Scientist - job 2 of 3

As a Protein Expression Scientist at Eurofins Scientific, you will be responsible for performing large-scale recombinant protein expressions and optimizing conditions for challenging proteins in various mammalian cell cultures. Your duties will include maintaining cell lines, utilizing bioreactor technology, conducting protein characterization, troubleshooting issues in protein expression and cell culture, and collaborating closely with other research groups. You’ll also be involved in documenting your experiments meticulously and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

To qualify for the Protein Expression Scientist position at Eurofins Scientific, candidates should ideally possess a Master's degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree with at least two years of relevant experience may also be considered. Experience with large-scale cell cultures, bioreactor systems, and protein characterization techniques are highly preferred, along with strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

Eurofins Scientific offers a comprehensive benefits package for Protein Expression Scientists, which includes excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, paid vacation, and holidays. This supportive program ensures that you can focus on your scientific work while enjoying peace of mind regarding your health and future.

At Eurofins Scientific, professional development is a priority. As a Protein Expression Scientist, you'll have opportunities to collaborate with experienced scientists, partake in team discussions, and present your findings. The company encourages continuous learning and skill development, including training junior team members and participation in workshops to stay updated with the latest in protein expression and biotechnology.

Working as a Protein Expression Scientist at Eurofins Scientific in West Point, PA, you can expect a collaborative and innovative work environment. The role emphasizes teamwork, where scientists share ideas and findings in a supportive setting. You will have access to advanced technology and equipment, fostering a culture of creativity and continuous improvement while adhering to strict regulatory and safety standards.

When answering this question, discuss your familiarity with various optimization techniques such as adjusting temperature, pH, and nutrient composition, as well as the importance of cell density and viability monitoring. Mention any specific experiences you have had optimizing protein yield in previous roles.

In your response, highlight any hands-on experience with WAVE bioreactor systems, detailing how you have used them for protein expression. Discuss your understanding of the benefits of using such systems in large-scale cultures and how you managed variables during your experiments.

Be prepared to talk about techniques you have used for protein characterization such as SDS-PAGE, Western blot analysis, and UV-VIS spectroscopy. Discuss how these techniques assist in validating protein quality and how you have applied them in previous projects.

Choose a specific example and share the challenge, the steps you took to address it, and the outcome. This displays your problem-solving skills and your resilience in a scientific context.

Discuss your understanding of safety protocols and how you have implemented them in your previous roles. Mention specific procedures you follow to maintain safety, such as proper PPE usage and adherence to waste disposal methods.

Explain your process for documentation, including what information you record and how you ensure that it is clear and organized. Highlight any specific systems you have used to manage data effectively.

Share your approach to mentoring and training junior team members, discussing any specific instances where you successfully guided someone in learning new techniques or protocols.

Describe a systematic approach you take to troubleshoot issues, including hypothesizing potential causes, conducting experiments to test hypotheses, and analyzing results to identify solutions.

Share an example of a collaborative project, emphasizing how you interacted with other groups, what contributions you made, and the final outcomes. This shows your team-oriented mindset.

Articulate your passion for the field and how you see yourself growing within it. Mention specific areas you would like to specialize in or roles you aspire to take on in the future, demonstrating your commitment to advancing in the biotech industry.