At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative RNA-based sequencing technologies to transform agriculture.
- Company: Join Terrana Biosciences, a pioneering agricultural biotech company focused on sustainable solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, healthcare coverage, retirement benefits, and an annual incentive programme.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for collaboration and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in agriculture with cutting-edge technology and scientific innovation.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. in relevant field with extensive experience in sequencing technologies and scientific leadership.
The predicted salary is between 115000 - 175000 £ per year.
Founded through Flagship Pioneering’s venture creation engine, Terrana Biosciences is a cutting-edge agricultural biotechnology company developing innovative RNA-based products to address global agricultural challenges. We are committed to advancing sustainable farming solutions through precision technologies that ensure environmental safety and regulatory compliance.
Terrana Biosciences is building a new generation of RNA-based technologies to transform agriculture. We are seeking an innovative and strategic Senior Scientist II or Principal Scientist, Sequencing Technologies to lead the vision, development, and expansion of sequencing capabilities across the company. As a scientific leader, you will define and drive sequencing strategies that accelerate discovery, platform development, and product advancement. You will serve as the technical authority for next-generation sequencing technologies, develop novel assays and approaches, and identify emerging opportunities that strengthen Terrana's RNA technology platform. This role requires a highly creative scientist who thrives at the intersection of technology innovation, scientific leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Define and execute an integrated sequencing strategy leveraging short-read, long-read, nanopore, and emerging sequencing technologies to maximize data quality, speed, flexibility, and cost efficiency.
- Conceive, develop, and implement innovative sequencing applications spanning genome, transcriptome, and regulatory RNA characterization.
- Evaluate and implement emerging sequencing technologies and establish new capabilities that improve data quality, throughput, flexibility, or cost efficiency.
- Own the sequencing function and sequencing core operations at Terrana, ensuring reliable, scalable, and cost-effective delivery of sequencing data supporting 100% of company pipeline activities.
- Accountable for sequencing throughput, quality, turnaround time, and operational performance.
- Drive continuous improvements in sequencing throughput, turnaround time, library creation automation, and unit economics while expanding the scale and impact of sequencing across the organization.
- Partner closely with Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, and AI/ML teams to enable key research objectives and accelerate innovation.
- Mentor scientists and contribute to the development of technical talent and scientific culture across the organization.
- Drive external collaborations and represent Terrana's sequencing capabilities with scientific partners and collaborators.
- Communicate scientific strategy, findings, and recommendations to senior leadership.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field.
- Senior Scientist II: Ph.D. and 8-11 years of relevant industry and/or postdoctoral experience with a demonstrated record of scientific leadership and innovation and leadership of sequencing platforms and operations.
- Principal Scientist: Ph.D. and 12+ years of relevant industry and/or postdoctoral experience with a demonstrated record of scientific leadership and innovation and leadership of sequencing platforms and operations.
- Deep expertise in next-generation sequencing technologies, assay development, experimental design, and RNA-focused applications.
- Proven track record of developing and implementing novel technologies or platform capabilities.
- Experience leading complex, cross-functional scientific initiatives from concept to execution.
- Demonstrated ability to balance scientific leadership with hands-on laboratory execution in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment.
- Experience developing, implementing, and scaling high-throughput laboratory workflows, automation solutions, and sequencing operations.
- Strong communication, influence, and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrated creativity, scientific rigor, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Expertise in RNA biology, RNA sequencing, small RNA analysis, transcriptomics, or related technologies.
- Experience in agricultural biotechnology, plant biology, or RNA-based technologies.
- Working knowledge of sequencing data analysis workflows and computational methods.
Location: Cambridge, MA
Senior Scientist II/Principal Scientist, Sequencing Technologies in Cambridge employer: Terrana Biosciences
Terrana Biosciences is an exceptional employer located in Cambridge, MA, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of agricultural biotechnology. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the company provides ample opportunities for professional development and mentorship, ensuring that team members can thrive while contributing to meaningful advancements in sustainable farming solutions. The inclusive culture and focus on cutting-edge research make Terrana an attractive place for passionate scientists looking to make a significant impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Scientist II/Principal Scientist, Sequencing Technologies in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Terrana Biosciences. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Terrana Biosciences!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Scientist II/Principal Scientist, Sequencing Technologies in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Terrana Biosciences that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Terrana Biosciences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Terrana Biosciences does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Terrana Biosciences
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Terrana Biosciences. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Terrana Biosciences's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Terrana Biosciences. This shows your passion for the industry!
