Senior Lab Automation Engineer

At Adaptyv, our high-throughput cloud lab enables protein designers to experimentally validate their proteins with the click of a button. We're building advanced molecular biology workflows, assay automation and software infrastructure to make it easy for our users to engineer better proteins. Since the launch of our beta access in June 2024 we've been growing rapidly and are now working with the fastest-moving protein design teams in the world, across tech bio startups, major AI companies and the biggest pharmas.

About the role:

We are looking for a talented and motivated Lab Automation Engineer. You will be responsible for integrating various lab automation devices, such as liquid handlers, robotic arms, plate readers etc, in order to enable fully autonomous protein engineering workflows in our Foundry.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement new protocols on automated liquid handling systems. Your focus will be on creating efficient processes for DNA synthesis and assembly, protein expression and protein in-vitro assays.
• Envision and design the workflow and optimal setup of the current laboratory automation capabilities and future versions of the platform. This includes planning and discussing with different vendors and device manufactures.
• Work in tandem with our Biology Team to integrate new protocols and assays on our automated platform.
• Optimize and standardize pipetting and liquid handling protocols to ensure precision and consistency in experimental procedures. Continuously seek opportunities to enhance lab efficiency and accuracy through automation.
• Write and maintain software code to ensure seamless integration of laboratory data with our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), databases and software, focusing on efficient data management and organization.
• Work alongside the ML/Data Team in building our Foundry API to manage and orchestrate complex biological workflows.
• Embrace a hacker mindset and use your skills in software development, hardware design, and mechatronics to innovate and create custom solutions tailored to our Foundry’s unique requirements.

Qualifications:

• BS, MS, or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Biotechnology, or any related field in science or engineering.
• 5+ Years of hands-on experience in developing and implementing protocols on various liquid handlers (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Opentrons, Echo) and integrating with common laboratory equipment (plate readers/sealers/peelers/hotels, robotic arms, incubators, fridges, etc).
• Proficiency in coding in Python and using Git for version control. Ideally also knowledge of JavaScript and not afraid to reverse engineer instrument-specific communication protocols.
• Demonstrated ability in designing and constructing integrated systems using hardware from multiple vendors.
• Experience with PyHamilton and PyLabRobot is a plus.
• Experience with basic electronics and 3D printing is a plus.