Process Scientist (Illumina Services)

About Plasmidsaurus

Plasmidsaurus is on a mission to accelerate new cures and promote a healthier planet by unlocking a new level of productivity for scientists who use DNA tools to bring their ideas to life. Our DNA sequencing tools are used daily by thousands of innovators, including Nobel prize winners, dynamic biotech startups, research labs, and DIY biohackers. Our global network of labs operates day and night to enable world-changing discoveries. In 2024, we saved these scientists 2 million hours of time, radically accelerating their research. Every team member at Plasmidsaurus plays a crucial role in driving forward the future of biotech research.

Schedule: Primarily Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (significant flexibility required, including off-hours and weekends to initiate and monitor Novaseq runs for optimal instrument utilization)

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Process Scientist to spearhead the day-to-day operations and future growth of our cutting-edge sequencing services at our Louisville laboratory. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise in Illumina sequencing, library preparation automation, and quality control, with a strong focus on balancing rapid turnaround times with the highest data quality. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Ownership & Technical Leadership: Take full ownership of the daily operations of the Illumina sequencing service. This includes managing sample workflow from receipt to data generation, and ensuring smooth and uninterrupted service delivery. Serve as a primary technical expert for Illumina sequencing workflows.

• Sample Processing: Perform and oversee hands-on processing of incoming samples, including accessioning, quality control of starting material, library preparation, and pooling.

• Instrument Operation & Optimization: Operate, maintain, and ensure optimal performance and maximum uptime of Illumina sequencing instruments. Troubleshoot instrument issues effectively and implement preventative maintenance schedules.

• Library Preparation Automation: Lead the efficient automation of library preparation workflows using liquid handling systems and other automation platforms. Continuously evaluate and refine automated protocols for improved efficiency, robustness, and cost-effectiveness.

• Quality Control (QC) Management: Implement and oversee a comprehensive QC strategy across the entire sequencing workflow. This includes defining appropriate QC checkpoints, establishing robust metrics for sample, library, and sequencing run quality, and making data-driven decisions to ensure the reliability and accuracy of results.

• Process Improvement & Optimization: Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement in all aspects of the sequencing service. Develop, validate, and implement optimized protocols and workflows to enhance turnaround time, data quality, and operational efficiency. This includes meticulous attention to every practical detail of all processes. Develop and implement effective training programs for new and existing staff on all relevant laboratory techniques, instrumentation, and SOPs.

• Troubleshooting & Technical Support: Investigate and resolve complex technical issues related to sample preparation, library construction, sequencing runs, and initial data quality assessment, providing guidance and support to the team.

• Reagent and Consumables Management: Oversee the monitoring and management of inventory of reagents and consumables required for sequencing operations, ensuring uninterrupted service.

• Documentation: Ensure meticulous and accurate records of all laboratory procedures, sample processing, instrument operations, and QC data are maintained in accordance with laboratory best practices. Oversee the creation, review, and updating of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Flexibility & Instrument Utilization: Demonstrate significant flexibility in work hours. Be willing and able to come into the lab during off-hours or weekends as needed (and ensure appropriate team coverage) to start, monitor, or complete sequencing runs to ensure the most efficient use of the instruments and timely delivery of data.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field.

• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in a high-throughput next-generation sequencing (NGS) laboratory environment, with a strong focus on Illumina platforms (NovaSeq experience is highly preferred).

• Demonstrable expertise in various Illumina library preparation protocols (e.g., RNA-seq, WGS, exome sequencing, etc.) and troubleshooting.

• Proven experience with the operation and maintenance of Illumina sequencing instruments, particularly the NovaSeq system.

• Significant experience in developing, optimizing, and implementing automated library preparation workflows using liquid-handling robotics.

• In-depth knowledge and practical application of NGS quality control metrics and procedures at all stages of the workflow (e.g., Agilent Bioanalyzer/TapeStation, Qubit, qPCR).

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proven ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and guide a team in these efforts.

• A passion for continuous process improvement and a meticulous approach to laboratory work.

• Ability to work independently and to lead a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Excellent organizational, delegation, and time-management skills.

• Strong communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, with an ability to effectively communicate with team members, management, and collaborators.

• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and to manage team schedules to meet the demands of sequencing operations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

• Familiarity with basic NGS data analysis and QC software.

• Experience in scaling laboratory operations.

• Understanding of CLIA/CAP or other regulatory environments is a plus.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated and skilled scientific leader to make a significant impact on our sequencing operations in Louisville. If you are passionate about Illumina sequencing, process optimization, and delivering high-quality genomic data, we encourage you to apply.

We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't perfectly align with the job description as we seek out diverse and creative perspectives. Team members who love to learn and collaborate in an inclusive environment will thrive with us. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you need additional accommodations to feel comfortable during your interview process, please let us know at [email protected].