The Technology Development Lab at NYGC supports cutting-edge research through scientific collaboration, focusing on innovative single-cell and spatial genomic assay and tool development, optimization and application. The Associate Scientist II in the Technology Development Lab will work with a highly motivated team towards the development, optimization and implementation of novel strategies for genomics research. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology. Some applicable experience in single-cell or spatial -omics technologies and/or NGS-based sequencing platforms is necessary. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required, as this role will work on an interdisciplinary team and actively collaborate across multiple functional groups to develop and implement new technologies into production. The ability to thrive in a fast-paced and shifting environment is essential. This position will report to the Laboratory Manager of the Technology Development Lab.

Key Responsibilities 

• Carry out procedures associated with DNA and RNA sequencing, including sample QC, library preparation and quantification;

• Train on and perform assays on tissue and/or cell/nuclei suspensions using single cell and spatial methods, such as CITE-Seq, snRNA-Seq, Multiome, ASAP-Seq, Visium, DLP+, etc.;

• Assist in procedures that are part of the Direct Library Preparation + method, such as preparing cell and nuclei suspensions and reagent aliquoting for library prep;

• Train on and perform spatial genomics assays (i.e., Visium) with some guidance and supervision;

• Contribute to the evaluation, development and troubleshooting of new and established methods by performing experiments and other tasks with supervision;

• Ensure up-to-date standard operating procedures and edit as needed;

• Collaborate closely with colleagues in the Technology Innovation, Technology Development, and Production Lab teams, facilitating knowledge transfer and cross-functional coordination;

• Maintain detailed, reliable, and timely laboratory records - tracking all work and issues in the appropriate databases/tracking sheets and/or electronic lab notebook;

• Assist with regular maintenance of laboratory equipment and actively maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and safety procedures.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelors’ degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field required;

• 4 years of experience in a molecular biology lab with at least 2+ years of demonstrated experience with next-generation sequencing library prep protocols and sequencing strongly preferred;

• Ability to work dynamically in shifts, as necessary with other team members in order to complete complex assays;

• Experience handling tissue, cells/nuclei, and DNA & RNA including dissociation, extraction, isolation, quantification, visualization, modification, hybridization, and PCR is preferred;

• Experience working with single cell-based assays, spatial biology platforms, and a working knowledge of specialized genomic platforms is a plus;

• Solid knowledge of molecular biology equipment and related protocols (including RNA and DNA preparation, RNA and DNA quantification, hybridization, PCR, multiplex amplification and bead-based solutions) highly preferred;

• Experience with modern molecular biology tools including prior experience working with single-cell suspensions and/or tissue samples, such as cell sorting, nuclei isolation, staining, or imaging is a plus;

• Experience with some automation, and eagerness to learn new platforms (i.e., CellenONE);

• Excellent laboratory and organizational skills including the ability to work independently and efficiently are essential;

• Ability to multitask is a must, along with an orientation toward teamwork and cooperation;

• Strong problem solving, excellent communication, and accurate bench skills required in addition to a passion for learning new things.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At NYGC we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Competencies

• Technical and Professional Skills: Consistently demonstrates skills and knowledge relevant for current role; strives to expand the depth and breadth of technical and professional skills; works with a high level of integrity; exhibits focus and discipline; appropriately prioritizes, manages expectations and delivers on commitments.

• Collaborative & Communicative: Models collaboration and teamwork; brings out the best in others; effectively works with all levels, internally and externally; respects and embraces diversity of perspective; communicates clearly and listens carefully; uses good judgment as to what to communicate and when to do so.

• Adaptable & Innovative: Adaptable and embraces change; develops new insights and pursues improvements and efficiency; fosters exchange of new ideas and willing to challenge the status quo; takes initiative and is solution-oriented; engages in work with passion and curiosity.

Work Flexibility

NYGC has established a flexible work policy to give employees and other staff more ability to balance their work, personal commitments, and commuting challenges. The incumbent in this position is eligible for a flexible work schedule with supervisory approval. The incumbent in this role is also required to be on-site 5 days a week. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Salary & Benefits

The pay range for this position is $67,000 - $73,500; the base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. 

In addition, NYGC offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits as well as generous time off. This includes Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Holidays, Sick, and Other Leave, including a paid winter break; a 401(k) match; Life Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts; employee Tuition Reimbursement; flexible schedules and telework options for some positions; an Employee Assistance Program; and much more.

About the New York Genome Center

The New York Genome Center (NYGC) is an independent, nonprofit, academic research organization dedicated to advancing genomic research. NYGC scientists and staff are furthering new approaches to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases and cancer through their unique capabilities in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, state-of-the art analytics, and the development of genomic tools. NYGC concentrates specifically on disease-based research in the following areas: neuropsychiatric disease (autism, schizophrenia, bipolar); neurodegenerative disease (ALS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s), and cancer.

Located in Lower Manhattan, the New York Genome Center was founded by and remains closely affiliated with the leading academic medical centers and research universities in the New York region, engaging in research projects with and for these institutions. Essential to our collaborative work is an outstanding faculty, whose members typically hold a joint appointment at NYGC and a partner university. They support our scientific mission by conducting independent research in areas of mutual interest to us and the wider scientific community.

Equal Opportunity

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to NYGC’s core mission. We strive to create a workplace environment that is welcoming and fair to all regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, or religion. We believe that when people of various backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives work together in an inclusive and equitable environment we gain new and valuable perspectives that otherwise would have been missed. Valuing and supporting all NYGC employees as individuals while helping them realize their full potential is critical to promoting greater collaboration, innovation, and discovery – fostering a sense of belonging for our greatest strength, our people. We recognize that there is still work to be done that will require sustained commitment from the entire organization.

The New York Genome Center is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, protected veteran or military status, domestic violence victim status, partnership status, caregiver status, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. NYGC takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. 

FLSA Status – Exempt

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or relocation assistance.