Clinical Research Scientist–Molecular Biology
St. Louis, MO
Translational Science /
On-site
Cofactor Genomics, a clinical stage diagnostics company using RNA to solve the biggest problems in healthcare, is looking for a talented scientist to join its clinical lab team. Cofactor has partnered with 38 healthcare systems throughout the nation to address the precision medicine gap by predicting which cancer patients will respond to immunotherapy. Cofactor’s predictive diagnostics are based on the latest in RNA and machine learning technologies and are proving more effective in guiding cancer patient treatments than conventional biomarkers. Cofactor’s pioneering work in RNA modeling has been published in The Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer, BMC Cancer, The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics, and other leading journals.
This role is part of our clinical team, tasked with improving patient outcomes by processing clinical samples and delivering high quality diagnostic results. A successful candidate will work full time, on-site at our clinical laboratory located in St. Louis, MO.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform high-complexity testing on patient samples in a CAP-accredited, CLIA-certified laboratory by following standard operating procedures
- Extract RNA and DNA, prepare and sequence NGS libraries, and perform rigorous quality control on clinical samples
- Support Cofactor Genomics’ QMS by running controls, evaluating and documenting data, taking corrective action when required, and communicating relevant QC information to a lab supervisor
- Identify, troubleshoot, and document potential problems, communicate non-conformance issues to supervisors, and take corrective action when appropriate
- Keep careful laboratory records and support the maintenance of the laboratory information system
- Support efficient laboratory operations by calibrating and maintaining equipment, troubleshooting issues, and helping maintain inventory of reagents and materials
- Promote the privacy, security, and confidentiality of data by following HIPAA and other relevant laws and regulations
- Maintain a clean and safe work area
- Support the validation of Cofactor’s molecular diagnostics in new indications and contribute to R&D efforts as needed
- Support other company initiatives as a valued member of the clinical wet-lab team
Requirements & Competencies
- Self-motivated and able to work independently
- Collaborative and able to work in a multi-disciplinary team environment
- Adept at learning and mastering laboratory procedures
- Strong molecular biology experience working with RNA
- Experienced in basic molecular techniques such as micropipetting, PCR, and nucleic acid extractions
- Organized and comfortable using laboratory information systems
- Strong communicator with good written and verbal communication
- Proficient computer and Microsoft Office program skills (Word, Excel, Outlook), and the ability to learn new software programs.
- Willing to take on additional tasks and responsibilities as needed
Credentials
- Bachelor degree plus three or more years relevant lab experience OR
- Masters degree plus one or more years relevant lab experience OR
- PhD with relevant experience
Additional Preferred Credentials and Experience
- Experience working in CAP/CLIA, GMP or GLP lab
- Experience with Next Generation Sequencing and related techniques such as bead-based nucleic acid purifications and automated electrophoresis
- Experience working with automated molecular biology workflows
- Knowledge and experience in immunology and/or oncology
Benefits
- Cutting edge technology and the tools you need to be successful
- Equity options
- 401k program with employer contribution
- Medical, dental, vision insurance, and HSA Life insurance
- Unlimited Paid Time Off
- Modern work environment with snacks and drinks
- Team social events and outings
- Supportive work environment and opportunities to advance your skills
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Cofactor Genomics, Inc. ("Cofactor") provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religious creed, gender, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, physical disability, mental disability, age, military status or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, marital status, registered domestic partner or civil union status, gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression), medical condition (including, but not limited to, cancer related or HIV/AIDS related), genetic information, or sexual orientation in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. In addition, Cofactor complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which Cofactor has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
