Excelsior Sciences of New York is transforming small molecule therapeutic drug discovery with the use of modular chemistry, to make better medicines fast. Excelsior's modular approach leverages smart blocks as the foundation of drug design and synthesis. Our smart blocks and proprietary methodologies enable chemistry that machines can do, rather than building machines that attempt to do chemistry as it is practiced today. By coupling our automated synthesis and testing, we can reduce the design-make-test-analyze cycle to two weeks. This rapid generation of high-quality data allows us to fully leverage AI/ML to create closed learning loops and conduct multiparameter optimization, resulting in better medicines, fast. Excelsior's operations are fully U.S.-based, as our automated approach enables us to onshore integrated drug discovery.

Title: Lab Automation Scientist/Engineer

We are seeking a highly motivated automation scientist/engineer with experience applying lab automation solutions towards drug discovery applications, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and a passion for leveraging technology to make a tangible impact on our mission to combat various diseases and improve global health outcomes. You will contribute to the design, development, and implementation of automated systems and workflows for drug discovery. In your role, you will work with robotics, software, and laboratory instruments to improve efficiency, accuracy, and reproducibility of small molecule lead discovery.

The successful candidate will collaborate with our teams involved in preclinical pharmacology, chemistry, and AI to automate, streamline, and optimize laboratory processes. They will also play a crucial role in managing and maintaining our library of chemical building blocks. The successful candidate must exhibit an energetic and innovative approach to problem solving.  Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a desire to work in a fast-paced, flexible and dynamic environment is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in the design, development, and implementation of automated laboratory systems and processes. This includes systems for automating small molecule synthesis, LCMS for sample characterization and purification, and high throughput biological analysis.
• Manage execution of our compound repository processes.
• Write new scripts and optimize existing automation protocols to reduce human error, improve efficiency and enhance data traceability.
• Provide scientific staff with on-going technical support and training related to automation equipment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional scientific and automation staff to align automation activities with project goals.
• Support continual enhancement of our workflows and processes by identifying, evaluating, and implementing key emerging technologies which address bottlenecks.
• Maintain the highest level of scientific rigor and professionalism within our organization.

Key Skills & Experiences

• BS or MS in the life sciences, or a related field, with 2-3 years of experience using lab automation for life science research applications.
• Familiarity creating scripts on lab automation systems is required. (This can include liquid handlers from Beckman, Hamilton, Tecan and/or integrated robotic workcells from Automata, BioSero, HighRes BioSolutions). Experience with a broad set of systems is an advantage.
• Familiarity in adapting manual chemistry protocols and biological assays to automation systems.
• Proficiency in modern programming languages (i.e. Python, JavaScript, C#, R) and experience working with drug discovery LIMS/ELN systems are big plusses.
• Electro-Mechanical design/assembly skills are also an advantage
• Demonstrated ability to work in a matrix environment and experience working in a global environment is a plus.
• Capability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

The salary range for this position is $79,000-$135,000 per year. The actual compensation offered will be based on factors such as relevant experience, education, and skills. In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off and other benefits.

Excelsior Sciences of New York Is an equal opportunity employer (EEO).  We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to religion, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, alienage or citizenship status, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Location: New York, NY

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