We are looking for a talented and motivated Lab Automation Engineer to join our Platform Team. In this role, you will be instrumental in developing and maintaining our state-of-the-art lab automation systems. Your primary responsibility will be to integrate and operate various lab automation devices, such as liquid handlers, robotic arms, plate readers etc, in order to enable fully autonomous protein engineering workflows in our Foundry.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement new protocols on automated liquid handling systems, in close cooperation with our Platform Team. Your focus will be on creating efficient processes for DNA synthesis and assembly, protein expression and protein in-vitro assays.
• Envision and design the workflow and optimal setup of the current laboratory automation capabilities and future versions of the platform. This includes planning and discussing with different vendors and device manufactures.
• Work in tandem with our Biology Team to integrate new protocols and assays on our automated platform.
• Optimize and standardize pipetting and liquid handling protocols to ensure precision and consistency in experimental procedures. Continuously seek opportunities to enhance lab efficiency and accuracy through automation.
• Write and maintain software code to ensure seamless integration of laboratory data with our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), databases and software, focusing on efficient data management and organization.
• Work alongside the ML/Data Team in building our Foundry API to manage and orchestrate complex biological workflows.
• Embrace a hacker mindset and use your skills in software development, hardware design, and mechatronics to innovate and create custom solutions tailored to our Foundry’s unique requirements.

Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Biotechnology, or any related field in science or engineering.
• Hands-on experience in developing and implementing protocols on various liquid handlers (e.g., Hamilton, Opentrons, Echo) and integrating with common laboratory equipment (plate readers/sealers/peelers/hotels, robotic arms, incubators, fridges, etc).
• Proficiency in coding in Python and using Git for version control. Ideally also knowledge of C++, JavaScript and vendor specific DSLs.
• Demonstrated ability in designing and constructing integrated systems using hardware from multiple vendors.
• Knowledge of automated laboratory scheduling software and adept in data and workflow orchestration.
• Experience in biotechnology or a related industry and familiarity with protein engineering workflows is a plus.
• Knowledge of different liquid classes, optimization of pipetting techniques, and robotic arm mechanics is a plus
• Experience with lab automation software such as pyHamilton and PyLabrobot is a plus.