Mantell Associates is partnered with a leading Cell Therapy Biotechnology organisation, who are searching for a Lab Automation Engineer team to join their Bioengineering team.

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Lab Automation Engineer - Responsibilities:

• Onboard new protocols onto our liquid handlers through collaboration with the BioEngineering team to set up robust robotic protocols for building DNA, culturing and transforming microbes, purifying and assaying proteins

• Own and overcome technical hurdles, troubleshooting technical problems

• Identify gaps within our automation capabilities,taking ownership of upgrading and/or onboarding new liquid handlers and equipment, collaborating with vendors and internal stakeholders

• Collaborate with the BioEngineering team and external integration party to integrate liquid handlers, robotic arms, and other equipment into a unified platform, streamlining protein optimization workflows

• Define and optimize protocols for pipetting and liquid handling, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility in the experimental processes

• Write code to harmoniously integrate input and output data with our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and ML Ops system, ensuring efficient data tracking and organization

• Conduct regular maintenance and calibration of laboratory automation equipment to ensure consistent performance

• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training materials to train new users on lab automation, ensuring proper use of the devices

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Lab Automation Engineer - Requirements:

• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline

• Practical experience developing protocols on liquid handlers (e.g. Tecan, Hamilton, Biomek, OpenTrons, iDOT, Echo) and writing scripts for laboratory automation

• Strong understanding of liquid classes, pipetting optimization and robotic arm movements

• Proficient in writing readable code in a major language (e.g. Python, C++, Java, etc)

• Familiarity with statistical methodologies for understanding, controlling and reducing process variation

• Successful track record tackling complex issues with innovative and resourceful solutions, demonstrating a keen analytical mindset

• Skillful balance between working autonomously and contributing collaborating

• Ability to think on your feet and adapt strategies as situations evolve

• Enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge, contributing effectively, and driving innovation in an early stage startup, displaying a keen appetite for ambiguity and fast pace

• Background in molecular biology and protein engineering preferable

• Familiarity with Tecan Fluent liquid handlers preferable

• Proficiency navigating automated laboratory scheduling software (e.g. Green Button Go, Plate Butler, and Cellario) preferable

• Familiarity with workflow management systems like Airflow, Argo, and Flyte preferable

• Proven experience using CAD software, 3D printing, and/or laser cutting preferable

• Track record engineering change control processes and/or software version control (Git, VSS, etc.) preferable

• Demonstrated prowess designing and building custom integrated systems involving hardware from various vendors preferable

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Mantell Associates is a specialist Pharmaceutical and Life Science headhunting firm. For more information on this opportunity, contact us at +44 (0)20 3854 7700.