Research Associate

We are seeking a skilled and detailed-oriented Research Associate (M/F/d) to join our dynamic team. This role demands strong laboratory skills, a talent for driving process improvements, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Tasks
- Assist the Downstream Tech Development team in conducting R&D experiments either manually or using state-of-the-art automated liquid handling equipment.
- Perform DNA purification, ligation, amplification (PCR or qPCR), DNA analysis by gel electrophoresis / spectrophotometry / capillary electrophoresis / polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.
- Prepare solutions, reagents and glassware including cleaning and sterilization.
- Support and maintain laboratory equipment including liquid handling systems and automated equipment.
- Monitor assembly processes and equipment performance, identify and resolve technical issues or anomalies.
- Perform routine maintenance tasks, calibrate and troubleshoot instruments to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
- Document results, data, procedures and conclusions in Ribbon's electronic lab notebook and other documentation means used by Ribbon Biolabs.
- Document equipment maintenance activities, troubleshooting procedures and automation protocols in accordance with company policies and procedures.
- Support laboratory management and maintenance, including monitoring and ordering consumables.
- Adhering to standard operating procedures and work instructions.
- Supporting and maintaining laboratory equipment, including liquid handling systems and automated equipment.
- Monitoring assembly processes and automated equipment performance, identifying and correcting technical problems or anomalies.

**Requirements**:

- Master’s or bachelor's degree in microbiology, Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related field. Or equivalent work experience/apprenticeship in these fields.
- Experience with Molecular Biology techniques such as PCR, qPCR, clonning, DNA and RNA isolation and purification, DNA sequencing, etc.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise instructions and protocols.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills to meet production deadlines and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment.
- Flexibility to work in a dynamic and fast-paced production environment.
- Ability to communicate in English (written and spoken) at Level B2 or higher.
- Ability to use Microsoft Office: Excel/PowerPoint/Word.

**Additional plus could be**:

- Previous experience working in a production or manufacturing environment, preferably in the microbiology or life sciences industry.
- Experience with electronic notebook entry and/or digital sample management systems.
- Experience with operating automated liquid handling and microbial colony picker robots
- Familiarity with quality control principles and techniques including microbial testing methods and documentation.
- Prior knowledge/experience working in a controlled environment (ISO/GMP).
- Fluent in German (written and spoken).

**Benefits**:

- Full health and social benefits according to Austrian law.
- Opportunity to crucially contribute to the translation of Ribbon’s product towards market entry and operational scale-up within a young, agile, and motivated team.
- International environment (our current team is of more than 23 nationalities).
- Support for professional development training and English (or German) lessons.
- Relocation support if necessary.
- Ticket for public transport (yearly ticket “Wiener Linien”).
- The opportunity to grow with the company and to live in the city of Vienna, which is repeatedly ranked as the city with the highest quality of life in the world.
- Coffee, tea, and snacks in the office.

By Austrian law, we are obliged to specify the salary level by a collective agreement, which is Euro 40.600, - to EUR 44.100 - gross per year. Salary can be adjusted according to your experience and qualifications.
**Job type**: Full time (40 h per week).
**Location**: Vienna.
**Availability**: We expect to fill the position as soon as possible.
**Your contact person**:
Lucia Kristova
HR Coordinator
**How to apply**:
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. While focusing on the right set and mix of experience and skills, we value diversity and are highly committed to set up working environment with mutual respect to everyone regardless their race, nationality, religion, gender, age or other characteristics protected by applicable regulations and laws. To keep the gender balance in the company we highly encourage women to apply.