In Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development Organization (pRED) we believe the rapid advances in science, technology, digital and big data are our greatest opportunity to rethink how we tackle some of the world’s toughest unmet health care needs and to have an even more profound impact on patients and society.
At pRED we are united by our mission to transform science into medicines. Together we create a culture defined by curiosity, responsibility and humility where our amazing people are empowered and inspired to bring forward amazing innovation at speed.
The Lab Automation Engineer/Specialist, Organoid Phenotyping for the Institute for Translational Bioengineering (ITB) supports the establishment of a newly formed scientific group in pRED (Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development) whose goal is to disrupt the traditional drug discovery process through innovation/big and bold ideas focused on advancing our ability to use more predictive human model systems. The Lab Automation Engineer/Specialist will implement the automation of innovative protocols for the high-content imaging of organoids and organs-on-a-chip cultures within the institute. She/he will work in close collaboration with the Scientist and the Lead Organoid Phenotyping (Marc Bickle) to provide access to automation for internal and external partners with the goal of developing standard operating procedures (SOP). This is a rare opportunity to be involved in supporting the creation and growth of a new and exciting Institute that brings together scientists and engineers from around the world.
Core tasks and responsibilities
Automation of organoid phenotyping and screening projects at ITB/pRED
Operate a robotic liquid handling platform for cell culture, assay execution and staining procedures in high density plate formats
Assume responsibility for the accuracy, quality, and timeliness of organoid phenotyping activities.
Summarize batch or experimental results, and reviews conclusions with supervisor/project leader. Communicate results of experiments. Keep supervisor/project leader informed of work status, particularly of significant findings and results in critical problem areas.
Participate in the design and organization of experiments in conjunction with supervisor. Providing input in writing experimental protocols, investigations and reports may be required.
Provide input for improving existing laboratory procedures. Assist supervisor in development and implementation of new procedures and evaluating new products and equipment. Assist with generation of written standard operating procedures.
Skills and capabilities
Degree in Life Sciences/Engineering with several years of experience operating robotic liquid handling platforms in a screening environment
Experience with human cell culture, preferably stem cells and 3D culture systems.
Basic proficiency with MS Words, Excel and LIMS or other relevant databases.
Experience with high content imaging microscopes is of advantage.
Communication skills, ability to work collaboratively in an international team.