A client of Sharp Decisions Inc. is looking for a Scientist - Molecular Biology to be based in Foster City, CA. This is a lab-based position. The position is 100% onsite. The contract's duration is for 12 months with possible extension. *W2 and Local only.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Our client is seeking a highly motivated scientist with experience in Genomics and Molecular Biology to join the Molecular Pathology group. A successful candidate will be instrumental in applying genomics technologies to tissue-based applications to derive molecular insights into disease biology. The individual will be responsible for refinement and execution of Spatial Transcriptomics, NGS/RNA-Seq on formalin fixed and/or frozen tissue. This role will interface cross-functionally across therapeutic areas and programs with Biologists, Pathologists and Data Scientists. Therefore, an ability to successfully engage and communicate across various functions within Research is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Primarily serving as the bench facing scientist in modification and execution of Spatial Transcriptomics/Emerging tissue-based technologies.
Execution of research projects that require gene expression analyses on fixed tissues.
Establishment of automated solutions for molecular biology readouts within a Pathology lab.
Cross-functional study planning, execution, and analysis with members in Biology and Research Data Sciences.

Knowledge, Experience and Skills

Demonstrated expertise of ways in which molecular biology principles could be applied to the interrogation of disease biology is required.
Extensive hands-on experience with DNA/RNA extraction, gene expression assays such as qRT-PCR is required. Prior experience with primer design and gene expression analysis is essential.
Experience with library preparation for next generation sequencing is highly preferred but not essential.
Ability to navigate genomics archives and databases hosted by UCSC, NCBI, ENSEMBL is essential.
Experience with tissue-based methods such as Immunohistochemistry (IHC)/Immunofluorescence (IF), in order to contextualize spatial relationships.
Demonstrated ability to communicate robustly and maintaining scientific rigor is essential.

Qualifications

A Masters degree in Genetics/ Molecular Biology/ Translational Biology or related discipline.
Proficient in execution of wide range of molecular biology assays.
Strong scientific background and in-depth understanding of genomic technologies. Prior experience with automation is preferred but not required.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills that reflect core values of integrity and excellence.

Required Years of Experience: 1-3

Required Degree or Certification: MS

Top 3 Required Skill Sets: Molecular Biology, RNA workflows, Sanger Sequencing

Top 3 Nice to Have Skill Sets: Probe/primer design, NGS library preparation, Previous experience with histology (IHC/H&E staining)