Scientist

Job Title: Scientist
Location: South San Francisco, CA (100% Onsite)
Duration: 6 Months (Potential Extension)
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Work Environment: Shared-resource laboratory (BSL-2+) Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Flow Cytometry Specialist to support daily cytometry operations in a fast-paced, shared laboratory environment. This role requires strong technical expertise combined with a service-oriented mindset, as the individual will work closely with scientists to ensure successful experiment execution.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with flow cytometry analyzers and cell sorters, including instrument setup, maintenance, troubleshooting, and user support. Reliability and punctuality are critical, as instruments must be operational by ~10:00 AM daily.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain flow cytometry analyzers and cell sorters
• Perform instrument startup and shutdown procedures
• Monitor cell sorting runs and ensure optimal performance
• Conduct routine and monthly maintenance (fluidics, PBS/saline systems)
• Clean instruments and manage cytometer waste (up to ~25 lbs)
• Troubleshoot clogs and technical instrument issues
• Support analyzer-only cytometers
• Assist scientists in completing experiments successfully
• Provide hands-on user training and technical guidance
• Design and optimize multiparameter panels (conventional & spectral)
• Ensure compliance with BSL-2+ safety standards
• Proactively engage with lab users to provide support

Required Qualifications

• Education:
  • Doctorate degree OR
  • Master's degree + 2 years of experience OR
  • Bachelor's degree + 4 years of experience
• Technical Skills:
  • Hands-on experience with flow cytometry
  • Cell sorting setup and operation experience
  • Experience with analyzers and sorters
  • Knowledge of conventional and spectral cytometry
  • Basic troubleshooting of cytometry instruments
  • Multiparameter panel design experience
• Soft Skills:
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a collaborative, service-based lab environment
  • Ability to support multiple users in time-sensitive situations
  • Proactive and customer-service-oriented mindset

Preferred Experience

• Experience with instruments such as:
  • BD FACSAria Fusion
  • BD FACSymphony
  • Cytek Aurora
• Experience training users in a shared-resource lab setting
• Familiarity with BSL-2+ lab environments

Top 3 Must-Have Skills

1. Flow cytometry operation (especially cell sorting)
2. Experience training users in a shared lab environment (BSL-2+)
3. Multiparameter panel design (conventional & full-spectrum)

Day-to-Day Activities

• Start up and calibrate cytometers
• Monitor and manage multiple sorting instruments
• Perform quality control and routine maintenance
• Support users with experiment setup and execution
• Train lab users on instrument operation and best practices
• Troubleshoot real-time instrument issues

Employee Value Proposition

• Opportunity to work in a cutting-edge cytometry environment
• High exposure to diverse scientific projects and researchers
• Collaborative and dynamic lab setting

Interview Process

• Step 1: Phone Interview
• Step 2: Onsite Interview with Team

Red Flags (Screening Considerations)

• Lack of experience training or supporting others
• Frequent job changes without clear justification
• Inability to explain cytometry concepts clearly
• Weak understanding of spectral vs. conventional cytometry
• Poor punctuality or reliability
• Disinterest in routine/manual lab tasks

Additional Notes

• Strong preference for candidates local to South San Francisco (within ~30-45 minute commute)
• Role requires consistent onsite presence and morning reliability