Biologist

Responsibilities

• The Bioprocess Development Department at the Bioresearch Center is seeking a highly motivated Contract Scientist to work with us on several CHO Cell Line Development team projects.
• Will join the teams working on a new cell line development platform based on "targeted integration", as well as other process optimization and cell line characterization studies.
• Maintain a high level of productivity in the lab, with clear and accurate documentation
• Develop and characterize CHO (Chines Hamster Ovary) cell lines within project timelines using both established and novel techniques
• Optimize methods as required to meet project goals
• Extensive cell culture work as needed to generate, maintain, evaluate, and preserve many suspension cell lines in parallel
• Work both independently and as a member of collaborative teams
• Effectively utilize standard software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Electronic Lab notebook applications)
• Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, documentation, safety, appropriate handling of materials, and GxP compliance.
• Will focus on cellular engineering, introduce DNA in the cells
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Biological Sciences with relevant laboratory experience.
• Open to PhD
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended times in the laboratory
• Proven track record in one or more of the following: cell culture/aseptic technique, cell line development, CHO cells, genetic engineering (e.g., CRISPR knock-out/knock-in, homologous recombination, targeted integration, cre/lox, frt/flp); flow cytometry/FACS; genetic characterization (e.g. ddPCR, qPCR, NGS), expression vector design.
• In-depth experience in mammalian cell culture/aseptic technique, exceptional attention to detail, demonstrated skills and productivity in laboratory research, and strong communication skills.
• Experience in one or more of the following: biopharmaceutical industry, recombinant cell line development (transfection, selection, cloning), genetic engineering (e.g., CRISPR Knock-Out/Knock-Ins, Cre/Lox), flow cytometry/FACS, recombinant protein production, and/or related skills.
  
  

Benefits

Healthcare Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents healthcare coverage through BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics. Premiums are subsidized by Synectics.

Dental Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents a dental plan through MetLife. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.

Vision Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees vision insurance through VSP. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.401(k) Plan: The Synectics Inc. Investment Savings Retirement Plan. Synectics offers all employees who are 21 years of age or older the opportunity to invest in the 401(k) Plan on the first enrollment date that is at least 30 days after employment begins. Enrollment dates are each January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st.

Technical Certification Bonus: Synectics is pleased to award its employees a bonus of up to $500 for an approved professional certification. In determining the bonus amount, Synectics will consider the cost of the test(s) for any certification relating to your current position, achieved during your employment with us. Only one Certification Bonus per calendar year may be awarded per employee. Only current, active employees will be eligible to receive this bonus. It will be awarded 90 days after the Synectics office has received documentation confirming the successful completion of the certification.

Synectics is an equal opportunity employer.