Molecular Bio-Engineer

Job Description

Molecular Biologist High Throughput Cloning and Screening 

We are looking for a Molecular Biologist to join our Research & Development team in Leiden. 

IFF’s Health & Biosciences division is a global leader in biotechnology. The IFF laboratories in Leiden have a long and dynamic history that goes back to the beginnings of modern biotechnology, to become the world market leader in sustainable bio-solutions. 
 

The R&D team in Leiden houses 33 creative, multi-disciplinary scientists from 14 different nationalities. We design microbial production strains (bacteria, yeast, and filamentous fungi) and engineer enzymes that are used in food & beverages, biofuels, home & personal care, animal feed, paper & textile processing, and more. We have a strong focus on providing sustainable solutions at an industrial scale: we apply science & creativity for a better world. 

For the advertised position, we are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated researcher to join our high throughput cloning team, focusing on all aspects of library generation for protein engineering. The successful candidate has hands-on experience and knowledge of molecular biology, in addition to experience with lab automation or affinity for laboratory robotics and programming. The successful candidate finds enjoyment in continuous cooperation with multidisciplinary teams and has a passion for continuous improvement and technology. 

 
The work will involve one or more aspects of the following: 
 

•    Contribute to the development, and execution of high throughput cloning and screening campaigns (DBTL cycle). 
•    Operate automated liquid handling and screening equipment. 
•    Identify and implement new and emerging developments and techniques in the field, with a focus on automation and high-throughput strategies. 
•    Support colleagues with planned and ad hoc assistance using our robotics infrastructure. 
•    Many of IFF’s successes and inventions emanate from our state-of-the-art laboratories; in this position, >50% of the time is expected to be dedicated to lab work. 
•    Due to its global character, this position offers the possibility of traveling and may require participating in (online) meetings after standard working hours.
 

Role Requirements

•    A Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Bio-Engineering or a relevant technical field. 
•    Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, and familiarity with laboratory information management systems. 
•    Experience with, or affinity for automated liquid handling equipment. 
•    Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. 
•    Affinity for programming is welcome. 
•    Intrinsic motivation for continuous improvement. 
•    Team player, hands-on mentality, and wet lab oriented. 
•    Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. 
•    Good communication, presentation, and networking skills. 
•    Fluent in spoken and written English. 

We offer: 

•    Position in a dynamic team of inspired, innovative, and highly skilled scientists. 
•    An energetic work environment created by inclusive and multicultural team. 
•    The opportunity to grow professionally and to develop a career in Biotechnology. 
•    Competitive salary and attractive compensation and benefits, such as: 
•    Individual Choice Budget of 8% of the annual base salary, employee choice to be paid in monthly instalments or to exchange for additional time off up to 15 extra days per year. 
•    25 vacation days and 3 bridge days, of which 2 of them are determined by the employer. 
•    Annual Incentive Plan.