Automation Scientist, Complex in vitro Systems (CiS) Laboratory

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We are looking for a versatile Scientist to work within the Complex in vitro Systems (CiS) Laboratory, where we design, develop, and characterize complex in vitro models (CIVM) to support the larger Development Sciences, Research, and Translational Medicine departments of Genentech. In particular, the individual will be responsible for providing scientific and technical expertise to automate scaling, processing, and assays using CIVMs. Currently the CIVMs include 3D multicellular models consisting of organoids and spheroids with aspiration to automate microfluidic organ-on-chip technologies. This laboratory-based role will focus on employing newly installed automation tools to support both discovery and preclinical development portfolios broadly through multiple contexts of use, including safety, disposition, biomarker development, and pharmacodynamic responses.  

The Opportunity:

This is a hands-on, lab-based position that requires close collaboration with colleagues and departments across multiple functions in Genentech Research & Early Development (gRED).

As an integral member of this dynamic team, you will be:

• Establishing, qualifying, and implementing innovative, state-of-the-art technologies/platforms, including:

  • Automated organoid culture and liquid handling systems

  • Complex genomic and transcriptomic profiling

  • Live-cell and high-content imaging for phenotypic screening

  • 3D microphysiological systems (MPS, e.g., organ-on-a-chip) and peripheral assemblies

• Performing hands-on lab work, including:

  • Sitting or standing for extended periods

  • Performing repetitive tasks such as cell culture, pipetting, and labeling tubes

  • Executing techniques that require a high degree of manual dexterity and physical activity

  • Being flexible with your work schedule, which may include variation in hours and occasional weekend/holiday work as needed

• Handling potentially hazardous materials, including:

  • Chemotherapeutics

  • Biological hazards

  • Human primary cells

  • Applying strong skills in cell and molecular biology

  • Utilizing direct experience with CIVMs (cell imaging and visualization methods)

Who You Are:

The ideal candidate will design, develop, operate, and maintain automated protocols and systems for complex cell culture and assay process scale up. The successful candidate will work closely with other automation specialists and biologists at Genentech to ensure regular maintenance of instrumentation and perform quality control of automated systems and equipment. They will also collaborate with a team of external vendors, data engineers, and software developers to implement automation best practices and proper process metadata tracking with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) integration. Importantly, the candidate will have direct experience translating lab experiments developed by individual scientists into automation-ready protocols that can run repeatedly at scale.

Successful candidates will possess the following skills/attributes:

• PhD in biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomaterials, immunology, pharmacology, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field is required. Candidates must have experience in either academia, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or CRO industry related to the automation and/or implementation of CIVMs.

• Hands on experience with at least several cellular assays (cell viability, flow cytometry, gene expression analysis, high content screening, 3D imaging analysis, biomarker quantification, transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), etc.) is required

• Hands on experience with primary cell cultures in 3D is a plus (could be organoids, layered cultures, or spheroid work)

• Track record of translating hands-on cell culture work into automated protocols

• Experience operating, programming, and integrating automation instrumentation and peripherals including but not limited to automated incubators, liquid handling platforms (e.g. Biomek, Hamilton Star, BioTek washers), robotic pipetting in general, centrifuges, cell counters, and imagers

• Experience with automation scheduling software (e.g. GreenButtonGo, Thermo Momentum, HiRes Cellario, etc.) is highly preferred

• Experience with integrating instrument and process quality control (QC) data with LIMS tools

• Experience working independently or with external vendors and service providers to make system modifications and improvements (e.g. hardware or software, new driver requests, etc.), troubleshoot, coordinate PM/repair visits, whenever necessary

• Knowledge of databases, cloud computing, and programming languages such as Python/C++/R as well as workflow scripting for liquid handling systems is a plus

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, interact professionally and present data to all levels of staff and external partners is required

• Oversee and manage the seamless operation of multiple sophisticated, scheduled workflows for automated culture systems

• Experience managing/scheduling/tracking multiple projects simultaneously establishing expectations and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders; experience implementing project management software is a plus

Relocation benefits are available for this job posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of South San Francisco, California is $120,700-$224,100 (Senior Scientist) and $141,500-$262,900 (Principal Scientist).  Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law.  A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance.  This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits 

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.