Laboratory Technician

Job Summary :

Zymo Research is a leading biotechnology company committed to advancing genomics research and personalized medicine. We operate a state-of-the-art Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Service Lab, and we are currently seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Laboratory Technician to join our dynamic team.

As a Laboratory Technician in our NGS Service Lab, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless processing of samples, accurate nucleic acid isolation, precise library preparation, and efficient sequencing of genomic material.

Your responsibilities will encompass a range of laboratory tasks, all critical to delivering high-quality results to our clients.

If you are passionate about helping people in advancing science and working with awesome teams in a fast-growing company, we want you!

This position is full time, fully onsite and is based in the Zymo Research HQ location.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Sample Receiving :

• Inspect customer samples upon arrival to ensure proper condition.
• Accurately log samples into our sample tracking systems and store them appropriately.
• Promptly report any issues, such as missing samples, mislabeling, or spills, to the customer support specialist / manager.

2. Nucleic Acid Isolation :

• Process samples in strict adherence to SOPs, utilizing automation platforms like KingFisher and Hamilton.
• Perform and meticulously record quality control (QC) data for extracted DNA / RNA.

3. Library Preparation and Sequencing :

• Execute library preparation, whether 16S or Shotgun, utilizing automation platforms (e.g., Hamilton) as required.
• Thoroughly document QC data for each step of the library preparation process, including the final library.
• Conduct library sequencing using cutting-edge instruments such as Illumina (Nextseq, MiniSeq, NovaSeq) and PacBio (Sequel IIe).
• Maintain accurate records of sequencing run metrics.
• Demonstrate a proactive approach to troubleshooting any issues that may arise during library preparation and sequencing.

4. Documentation :

Keep meticulous records of inventory, intra-run quality control, and completed projects, ensuring compliance with established protocols.

Additional Responsibilities :

• Responsible for maintaining cleanliness and orderliness of the lab environment.
• Monitoring and replenishing laboratory reagents and supplies as needed

Education and Work Experience :

An Associate’s degree with one-year laboratory experience in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Biochemistry or related field.

Bachelor’s degree is a plus.

• Experience performing molecular biology and biochemistry including PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid purification etc.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Attention to details and accuracy
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products

About Us :

Since its inception in 1994, Zymo Research has been proudly serving the scientific community by providing innovative, reliable, and high-quality research tools.

Whether it's epigenetics, DNA, RNA, microbiomics, or yeast-based research, our philosophy remains the same : To provide the highest quality products in the industry while ensuring they are both simple to use and reliable in their performance.

Named a Top Workplace by the OC Register in 2021, 2022 and Top Workplace USA in 2023, Zymo Research continues to be a place where employees feel engaged, connected, and energized about their work.

If you are passionate about helping people in advancing science and working with awesome teams in a fast-growing company, we want to speak with you!

Compensation :

The estimated compensation range for this position is $20 - $22 / hour at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be provided in writing at the time of offer, if applicable, and is based on several factors we believe fairly and accurately impact compensation, including geographic location, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other job permitted factors.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer :

Zymo Research welcomes candidates of all backgrounds. These include sex, age, color, race, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical & mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Location :

Zymo Research HQ, 17062 Murphy Ave. Irvine, CA 92614