Sr. Engineer I, Automation

Job Description

About This Role

Biogen is seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join the Bioassays and High-Throughput Screens (BHTS) group within the Biotherapeutic & Medicinal Sciences (BTMS) division in Research. BHTS develops miniaturized biochemical and cell-based assays, conducts automated high-throughput screens (HTS), and quantifies molecule potency in semi-automated bioassays, focusing on data quality while reducing turnaround time. The primary responsibility of this position is the operation and management of automated workstations and integrated HighRes Biosolutions robotic platforms that enable 384- and 1536-well plate-based drug discovery. The position requires on-site presence and requires working in a lab environment in the presence of biological materials (cell lines) chemicals and reagents. The successful candidate will help us identify, characterize and advance promising drug candidates toward the clinic through open communication, teamwork, creative problem solving, and innovative application of state-of-the-art technologies.

What You’ll Do

• Collaborate with assay scientists to implement and optimize innovative automation processes for HTS and weekly testing of compounds
• Optimize assay instrument and robot performance to enhance system efficiency, reliability, and performance. Coordinate preventative maintenance, equipment repairs, and collect system performance data
• Execute lab automation operation tasks including method creation and editing, error recovery, troubleshooting, and point-teaching
• Lead continuous improvements to LIMS and automated sample task and execution system
• Oversee production of Assay Ready Plates (ARPs) using our automated sample management and task execution system
• Responsible for internal sample management for small molecule library administering multiple inventories and quarterly additions to our collections
• Engage in scientific discussions about the application of automation, present innovative process improvements at internal meetings and conferences, and contribute to scientific articles and papers
  
  

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related discipline, with 6+ years of experience
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, C#, or C++
• Competency with relational databases, system architecture, and networking
• Expertise managing Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) such as Scigilian, Titian, etc.
• Proficiency with assays and their assembly using automated liquid handlers (HighRes Bio Prime, Agilent Bravo, etc.)
• Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
  
  

Preferred Skills

• Working knowledge of HighRes Biosolutions robotic systems and software (Cellario and Cellario Order Broker)
• Experience teaching and working with Kuka Collaborative robotic arms and Brooks (Precise) robotic arms
  
  

Additional Information

Why Biogen?

We are a global team with a commitment to excellence, and a pioneering spirit. As a mid-sized biotechnology company, we provide the stability and resources of a well-established business while fostering an environment where individual contributions make a significant impact. Our team encompasses some of the most talented and passionate achievers who have unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and expanding their skills. Above all, we work together to deliver life-changing medicines, with every role playing a vital part in our mission. Caring Deeply. Achieving Excellence. Changing Lives.

At Biogen, we are committed to building on our culture of inclusion and belonging that reflects the communities where we operate and the patients we serve. We know that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives make us a stronger and more innovative company, and we are focused on building teams where every employee feels empowered and inspired. Read on to learn more about our DE&I efforts.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. Biogen is an E-Verify Employer in the United States.