Company Summary:

FL70, Inc is one of the latest companies founded through Flagship Pioneering’s venture creation engine, where companies such as Moderna Therapeutics, Rubius Therapeutics, and Evelo Therapeutics were conceived and created. Since Flagship’s founding in 2000, the firm has originated and fostered the development of nearly 100 scientific ventures resulting in $19+ billion in aggregate value, 500+ issued patents, and more than 50 clinical trials for novel therapeutic agents. FL70 is integrating the latest developments in molecular biology and plant biology to create a new platform technology that enables adaptive, targeted and sustainable solutions in agriculture.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated, proactive, and detail-oriented research associate to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in developing high throughput cloning methods and molecular assays in diverse plant and microorganism systems. The role requires strong practical background in molecular biology and the successful candidate is highly organized, comfortable working in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment, and an integral part of a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary team. Excellent communication, record-keeping, and teamwork will be critical.

Key responsibilities include:

• Collaborate with scientists and research associates to execute molecular assays for experimental readouts
• Perform vector construction including nucleic acid purifications, primer design, Gibson Assembly and GoldenGate cloning techniques
• Ability to independently troubleshoot, solve difficult problems, and propose solutions related to assay design and execution
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills
• Assist with lab management tasks, including ordering and general organization
• Communicate results in written technical reports and oral presentations

Required skills:

• Strong expertise in vector design and cloning  
• Experience with molecular biology techniques including qPCR, Western blot and NGS library preparation
• Experience with reporter detection assays (e.g. Luciferase, EGFP)
• Experience with protein, DNA and RNA purification
• Experience with bacterial culture or other microbes
• Excellent communications skills and ability to work with a diverse interdisciplinary team

Minimum qualifications:

• BS or MS in Molecular Biology, Plant Pathology, Microbiology or a related discipline
• 3+ years professional laboratory experience, experience working in industry is a plus
• Enthusiasm for science and willingness to adapt to the changing needs of a fast-paced research and development effort.
• Adaptive and a quick learner, efficient in multi-tasking and trouble-shooting.
• A strong self-starter, results oriented with a strong attention to detail.

Location: Cambridge, MA