Staff Scientist, Sanger Sequencing

Date: Sep ‎8, ‎2022
Location: Saudi Arabia
Company: King Abdullah University of Science & Technology
Job Purpose

The scientist ensures the smooth operations of Sanger sequencing at the
Bioscience Core Lab (BCL) at KAUST. He/she role will be involved in the day-
to-day processing of samples and releasing of data. With assistance of the
team lead, the scientist in this role provides guidance and supervision for
the Sanger team in managing operations, maintenance of instruments, trouble-
shooting and ensuring turnaround time and sequencing quality goals are met.
The scientist will also be communicating daily with users and PIs, procurement
and logistics teams, vendors and local distributors among others.

Major Accountabilities

• Process samples for Sanger sequencing from sample receipt, sequencing preparation, and data release.


• Coordinate with technical specialists to deliver Sanger sequencing, and to conduct routine research analysis, lab procedures and run instruments with minimal supervision.


• Assessment and adaptation of new protocols and technologies, if needed. Stay up to date on best practice for techniques and methodologies, and share knowledge with other team members.


• Demonstrate independence and critical thinking in consistently delivering excellent quality data.


• Provide deep technical knowledge on all aspects of Sanger sequencing including the users' preparation of samples, workflow optimization and improvement, analysis of output data, and troubleshooting results.


• Communicate effectively with PIs and users about preparation of samples and interpretation of results. Provide advice to users on the best use of the technology for their goals.


• Ensure efficient daily operations and provide effective solutions to maximize productivity and impact.


• Oversee SOPs, WIs, and other documentation. Show excellence in documentation practice.


• Take responsibility and ownership for tasks (e.g. plan, perform and oversee preventative and corrective maintenance, trouble-shoot and maintain equipment, purchase consumables, meet budget targets, etc.).


• Proactively perform or assign general laboratory duties, administrative- and service-related tasks, procurement work, etc. Contribute to a positive work environment.


• Liaise with vendors, scientific peers and other stakeholders in the best interest of BCL.


• Perform other applicable tasks and duties assigned within the realm of the employee's knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of his/her position.

Person Requirements

Competencies

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, as well as people-managing skills.


• Demonstrated expertise, technical proficiency and deep understanding of sequencing with a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry or genomics. Working experience in Sanger sequencing is a plus. Bioinformatics ability is a plus.


• Strong scientific and technical problem-solving skills and independent thinking.


• Ability to make operational decisions independently with minimal supervision.


• Solid knowledge and ability to supervise laboratory users to ensure good lab practice and adherence to safety procedure, SOPs, WIs and other documentations.


• Be reliable and responsible. Take ownership of tasks to ensure full completion to required standard with minimal errors and supervision.


• Is meticulous, dynamic and resilient, with proactive personality and positive, growth mindset (scientific curiosity and desire to better oneself). Always look for improvements.


• Good organizational skills. Excel in documentation.


• Ability to work in a team and collaborate with others (open and sharing). Ability to work under pressure.

Qualifications

PhD degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, biochemistry or
similar field, or equivalent experience.

Experience

At least ‎2 years of practical experience in nucleic acid-based techniques.

Demonstrated experience and knowledge in Sanger sequencing and method
development is ideal.

Knowledge of other sequencing methods preferable.

Experienced and comfortable working with different cultures in an
international and multi-disciplinary environment essential.