Intern, Inkjet DNA Synthesis

DNA Script is looking for a dynamic and talented individual to join the Inkjet team, a part of DNA Script’s R&D department in charge of the development of new DNA synthesis process and instrumentation. The inkjet platform aims to parallelize enzymatic DNA synthesis by performing the elongation reaction in picolitre droplets. One of the challenges is to reliably collect the DNA pools created by the inkjet printer and characterize them effectively.

The role of the candidate will be to operate the custom-made inkjet printers and contribute to the development of the ink formulation, synthesis process and DNA characterization protocols operating both on automated machine and on chemical bench. They will need to quickly master the operation of the DNA printer and the retrieval and analysis protocol and be able to propose alternatives and improvements.

You will work in a fast-paced, international, and challenging environment, with a direct impact on the company technology. The position will require a lot of transversal and interdisciplinary communication with the different company teams.

This Internship is an opportunity to join a rapidly growing company and contribute to the development of a new and revolutionary technology that will have far-reaching impact across biological sciences.

Responsibilities

Your missions will be to:

• Quickly grasp and understand the company’s current inkjet DNA synthesis technology.
• Contribute to the development of ink formulations, working on the bench under the supervision of a Formulation Scientist. Examples:
• Screening for reagents and improve the formulation, validating ink activity and stability on bench and in the machine.
• Adapt the current formulation for different synthesis approaches and deprotection methods.
• Develop and test new protocols to increase the synthesis efficiency, robustness and reproducibility.
• Operate the custom-made inkjet printers, taking care of loading, launching and cleaning the machines.
• Perform in-depth analysis of experimental data, write reports and present results across all levels of the company.
• Actively contribute to critical company milestones, with a willingness to work outside immediate area of expertise when required.

Qualifications and experience

Essential

• Engineering degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or chemistry in link with life science.
• Knowledge in molecular biology and/or biotechnology, particularly in DNA/RNA manipulation.
• Interest for the company’s technology and biotech in general.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team with researchers, software and hardware engineers.
• Fast-learner, autonomous, and versatile individual.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and systematic troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good level in English.

Desirable

• Experience with automation, in particular liquid handlers.
• Experience in sequencing technology.
• Coding skills, especially for data analysis and/or automation.
• Excellent English skills and good French speaking level.

Miscellaneous

• Internship located in Kremlin-Bicêtre (Paris area).
• Start date: ASAP.
• Internship period: 5-6 months.