Automation Engineer

Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Cambridge, MA

Full-time

Cambridge, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Automation Engineer at the Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research will play a crucial role in operating and enhancing automated instrumentation to support high-throughput scientific research. This position involves collaboration with leading scientists and engineers to develop automated solutions that accelerate discoveries in oncology. The role requires a blend of technical expertise and the ability to train and support researchers in utilizing automation and data management effectively.

Responsibilities

• Design and operate project-specific automated workflows and data solutions.
• Maintain integrated systems and ensure their optimal performance.
• Train researchers in the use of automation and data management tools.
• Maintain vendor relationships and service contracts.
• Coordinate high-throughput screening (HTS) campaign scheduling.
• Evaluate new software and hardware for automation.
• Partner with IT for efficient data management.
• Perform monitoring, troubleshooting, and sustaining activities for automated systems.
• Participate in conferences to evaluate new trends in automation.
• Handle other duties as requested.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in bioengineering, computer science, chemistry, biology, or related discipline.
• At least four years of lab automation, screening, or related experience (may include two years' experience gained as an undergraduate).
• Experience with automation software (e.g., Freedom EVOware).
• Experience integrating liquid handlers to analytical instrumentation via robotic arms and scheduler software.
• Attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
• Strong time management and documentation skills.
• Effective communication skills and discretion with confidential information.
• Ability to work as part of a team and teach others.
• Adaptability to shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with high-content screening and compound or genetic library management.
• Experience with biological data analysis.
• Working knowledge of common programming and data science tools such as Python, JavaScript, C#, R, Azure/GCP/AWS, and/or Docker.