Research Associate

Valent BioSciences

Research Associate contributing to synthetic biology efforts at Sumitomo Biorational Company. Engaging in microbial cultivation, molecular biology procedures, and lab management tasks.

Posted 6/4/2026full-timeLibertyville • Illinois • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $31 - $37 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Assembly

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Coordinate and conduct all work in strict compliance with applicable safety requirements, containment requirements, standard operating practices, and/or guidelines.
Assist in the design, build, screen/test, and cultivation of model and non-model organisms including bacteria, yeast, and fungi.
Perform routine strain engineering workflows and general molecular biology procedures, including DNA and RNA isolation and purification, PCR, sequencing, ligation, assembly, chemical and electrical transformations, and conjugation.
Development of high-throughput assays, including the design and implementation of plate-based growth assays using Agilent BioTek instruments.
Perform batch fermentations in either microtiter plates or flasks and prepare samples for submission for downstream organic extraction.
Support team members by preparing specific solid and liquid media, buffers and reagents to support synthetic biology workflows.
Assist with QC and data collection as requested.
Accurate and well-organized record keeping of all experimental work for the development of SOPs and maintenance of an electronic laboratory notebook.
Prepare comprehensive slide presentations summarizing key points and results, effectively communicate findings to a larger audience as needed.
Maintenance of the laboratory including general housekeeping functions, inventory maintenance and organization, and equipment upkeep.
Assist in the onboarding of research technicians by overseeing training of general lab operations and molecular biology procedures, organizing a clear training schedule and coordinating with other lab members as needed.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Passion for the expanding field of synthetic biology, especially as it relates to the development of novel products and sustainable solutions.
Experience in microbial cultivation of E. coli and other hosts.
Candidates with experience in one of the following: gram positive bacteria, automation tools or procedures, high-throughput assay or workflow would be preferred.
Biotechnology software experience, such as Geneious and Snapgene is a plus.
Works well in teams, especially with synthetic biology and microbiology group members but also across other research department functions.
Strong communication, presentation and listening skills.
Must be a self-starter with good organizational skills and detail-oriented.
Will foster a culture of diversity and inclusion.
BS/MS in Biology, Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or Biochemistry with 1-2 years of relevant experience in a research environment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans
5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus
Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions
Financial assistance programs to support your goals
Life and disability insurance for added security
Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

strain engineeringDNA isolationRNA isolationPCRsequencingligationchemical transformationselectrical transformationsconjugationhigh-throughput assays

Soft Skills

communication skillspresentation skillsorganizational skillsdetail-orientedteamworkself-starterlistening skillstraining coordinationhousekeepingrecord keeping

Certifications

BS in BiologyMS in BiologyBS in Synthetic BiologyMS in Synthetic BiologyBS in Molecular BiologyMS in Molecular BiologyBS in BiotechnologyMS in BiotechnologyBS in BiochemistryMS in Biochemistry