Staff Scientist I - Molecular Robotics

The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University

Boston, MA

ID: 7134647
Posted: March 17, 2023
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

About Us:
The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the freedom of academia and the focus of industry in order to translate revolutionary technologies into commercial products and solutions. At the Wyss Institute, faculty from premier academic and clinical institutions, collaborate with staff scientists, postdocs, graduate students, industry experts, business development leaders, and entrepreneurs across disciplines to invent and de- risk new technologies that don’t just succeed at making it to the market – they disrupt it. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky. We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information, visit: http://wyss.harvard.edu/

About you:
You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific interests and apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with diverse groups of people and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About the Role:
We are looking for an innovative Scientist with experience in designing self-assembling DNA systems and microscopy and image analysis to join our Molecular Robotics team. Reporting to the Technology Translation Director and working closely with Faculty Member, Prof. William Shih, you will contribute to the development of ultrasensitive diagnostics using enzyme-free DNA self-assembly. For more information on this initiative, please visit : https://wyss.harvard.edu/technology/dna-nanotechnology- tools-from-design-to-applications/

What you'll do:
- Independently conduct and design experiments that will lead to the development of new ultrasensitive diagnostics using enzyme-free DNA self- assembly
- Organize, interpret and present data in internal and external meetings
- Contribute to grants, internal reports, patent application, Institute publications and Institute presentations
- Mentor technicians and visiting students
- Collaborate with Institute staff, faculty, and postdoctoral fellows on technology innovation within the - Molecular Robotics focus area
- Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness through actions, interactions, and communications with others


What you'll need:
- Bachelor’s degree required in natural science or engineering field.
- A minimum of 4 years of related experience required. Advanced Education may count towards years of experience.


Desirable Skills
- Advanced degree preferred in a natural science or engineering field
- Full time post graduate industrial experience with a focus on product development is preferred.
- Proficiency with design of self-assembling DNA systems; with microscopy and image analysis; optical design, construction, and engineering
- Experience with single-molecule fluorescence and/or mechanics is a plus.


Working Conditions:
This position will be based on our campus in Boston, MA and will require on-campus presence. Subject to business needs, the Wyss Institute generally supports flexible work arrangements.

Harvard University continues to place the highest priority on the health, safety and wellbeing of its faculty, staff, and students, as well as the wider community. Please note that all new employees will be required to provide confirmation of primary series COVID-19 vaccination upon hire, as detailed on our COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Webpage. Harvard University Health Services employees and other health care individuals are also required to be up to date on vaccination as described by the CDC. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. Additional information regarding this requirement, exemptions, verification of vaccination status, and other related policies and resources may be found on the University’s COVID-19 Information Website.


Additional Information:
Harvard is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.


Why you’ll like working with us:
At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our community will be relocating to a new, state of the art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood in spring 2023, where you will have access to multiple amenities including a roof terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions. We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.