
Join Our Team!
Metabolix is an exciting young company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, commercializing a broad family of bioplastics based on biological conversion of renewable resources (sugars and vegetable oils) that respond to society's call for sustainable plastics and chemicals. The company received the 2005 Presidential Green Chemistry Award and the 2006 Environmental Stewardship Award from the Society of Plastics Engineers. Metabolix employs a highly interdisciplinary team of molecular biologists, chemical engineers, chemists and polymer scientists. Our growing company continuously seeks talented individuals in the fields of molecular biology, plant sciences, fermentation, chemistry, polymer science and polymer applications who would like to work in a friendly, collegial atmosphere. Metabolix is an equal opportunity employer. Salaries and benefits are competitive. Located near MIT in Cambridge, Metabolix is convenient to public transportation. To support our expanded piloting, engineering and market development production needs, we seek to fill the following new positions with immediate effect:
Science - Global Gene Expression
Metabolix, Inc. is seeking a scientist to establish Global Gene Expression capability for microbes using DNA microarrays and real-time PCR. The successful candidate will obtain data and use the analyzed results from DNA microarrays to guide the design of a rational genetic engineering strategy for the manufacture of robust industrial strains that produce a new generation of highly versatile, sustainable, biobased, biodegradable, natural plastics and chemicals.
Position requirements:
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field
- Demonstrated experience of establishing global gene expression analysis technology using DNA microarrays
- Successful application of DNA microarrays to analyze global gene expression from bacteria grown in high-cell density fermentations
- Hands-on experience with real-time PCR
- In-depth knowledge of microbial physiology, molecular genetics, and biochemical / analytical characterization of engineered strains
- Thorough knowledge of statistical and bioinformatics tools for the self-directed analysis of DNA microarray and real-time PCR results
Responsibilities:
- Set up global gene expression analysis core capability and apply technology to expedite the construction of robust industrial production strains
- Conduct research in the lab to construct robust industrial strains using microbial metabolic pathway engineering
- Regularly report results to senior management
- Maintain concise laboratory notebooks, write technical progress reports and assist in the filing of patent applications
- Maintain a safe and orderly laboratory and ensure compliance with all safety policies and practices
Skills:
- High level of independent scientific ability, as demonstrated by publications, patents, and/or accomplishments
- Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and interpret experiments
- Ability to apply scientific rigor to the design and execution of experiments
- Excellent understanding of how to accurately interpret data and draw justifiable conclusions
- Ability to clearly communicate technical results to a diverse audience
- Ability to perform creative science
Personal Attributes:
- Demonstrated team player who works effectively alone and as part of a group
- Demonstrated good listening skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- Sees problems as challenges to overcome
- Self-motivated, well organized
For immediate consideration (please follow instructions precisely):
1. Email us at HRJobs@Metabolix.com
2. Subject: Global Gene Expression
3. Attach your resume as either Word or PDF file named yourlastname_yourfirstinitial, for example, smith_j.doc for John Smith.
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Science - Metabolic Modeling
Metabolix, Inc. is seeking a scientist to expand our Metabolic Modeling capability for microbes. The successful candidate will predict the behavior of microbial cells before and after in silico genetic engineering, identify potential flux bottlenecks, and guide rational genetic engineering design for the manufacture of robust industrial strains that produce a new generation of highly versatile, sustainable, biobased, biodegradable, natural plastics and chemicals.
Position requirements:
- Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or similar field
- Demonstrated experience in biochemical pathway modeling, including flux balance analysis, metabolic control analysis, and thermodynamic modeling of metabolic pathways
- Extensive knowledge of microbial physiology / metabolism and recombinant gene expression in a variety of microbial hosts
- Knowledge of state of the art microbial metabolic pathway engineering tools
Responsibilities:
- Generate new and expand current metabolic models for microbes
- Determine maximum theoretical yields and generate flux maps of real and optimal systems
- Conduct sensitivity analyses to predict what genetic modifications have the most pronounced effects on yield, productivity, etc.
- Conduct research in the lab to construct robust industrial strains
- Regularly report results to senior management
- Maintain concise laboratory notebooks, write technical progress reports and assist in the filing of patent applications
- Maintain a safe and orderly laboratory and ensure compliance with all safety policies and practices
Skills:
- High level of independent scientific ability, as demonstrated by publications, patents, and/or accomplishments
- Demonstrated ability to independently reconstruct metabolic networks and conduct appropriate modeling simulations
- Ability to apply scientific rigor to the design and execution of experiments
- Excellent understanding of how to accurately interpret data and draw justifiable conclusions
- Ability to clearly communicate scientific data and results to a diverse audience
- Ability to perform creative science
Personal Attributes:
- Demonstrated team player who works effectively alone and as part of a group
- Demonstrated good listening skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- Sees problems as challenges to overcome
- Self-motivated, well organized
For immediate consideration (please follow instructions precisely):
1. Email us at HRJobs@Metabolix.com
2. Subject: Metabolic Modeling
3. Attach your resume as either Word or PDF file named yourlastname_yourfirstinitial, for example, smith_j.doc for John Smith.
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Science - Process and Analytical Chemistry Assistant
Position Requirements:
- Associates degree in Chemistry or high school diploma
- Experience with Excel and Word
- Experience with analytical instrumentation, working in a lab setting
Responsibilities:
- The individual will report to the head of the Analytical Chemistry group or one of its senior members and work to include will be:
- Prepare and run samples using GPC, DSC, GC instruments as well as other established wet chemical test methods.
- Work closely with Analytical Chemists in the group to help support QC testing of PHA materials.
- Attend weekly group meetings and present updates on progress as requested.
- Order supplies, maintain the lab and oversee the chemical inventory.
Skills:
- Attention to detail
- Experience working in an analytical or testing lab
- Able to pick up new skills quickly
Personable Attributes:
- Team oriented
- Organized
- Work in a safe manner
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Network Administrator
Metabolix is hiring a Network Administrator to Install, setup, and monitor local area network (LAN). The candidate will perform a variety of maintenance, evaluation, installation, and training tasks to ensure LAN performance meets company and user requirements. The Network Administrator will report to the Director of IT.
Primary Responsibilities
- Administer network workstations, utilizing one or more TCP/IP or non-TCP/IP networking protocols
- Evaluate and/or recommend purchases of computers, network hardware, peripheral equipment, and software
- Investigate user problems, identify their source, determine possible solutions, test and implement solutions
- Install, configure, and maintain personal computers, Windows networks, file servers, ethernet networks, network cabling, and other related equipment, devices, and systems; adds or upgrades and configures modems, disk drives, data acquisition boards, CD ROM units, printers, and related equipment
- Perform and/or oversee software and application development, installation, and upgrades
- Maintain site licenses for department/organization
- Plan and implement network security, including building firewalls, applying cryptography to network applications, managing host security, file permissions, backup and disaster recovery plans, file system integrity, and adding and deleting users
- Troubleshoot networks, systems, and applications to identify and correct malfunctions and other operational difficulties
- Develop and conduct various training and instruction for system users on operating systems, relational databases, and other applications; assist users in maximizing use of networks and computing systems
- Identify utilization patterns and their effect on operation/system availability and performance expectations
- Anticipate communication and networking problems and implement preventive measures
- Establish and perform maintenance programs following company and vendor standards
- Ensure timely user notification of maintenance requirements and effects on system availability
- Investigate, recommend and install enhancements and operating procedures that optimize network availability
- Maintain confidentiality with regard to the information being processed, stored or accessed by the network
- Document network problems and resolutions for future reference
- Other duties as assigned
Knowledge and Skill Requirements
- Minimum of 5 years of Network Administration in a scientific environment
- Bachelors in Computer Science or equivalent experience/training
- Knowledge of a range of computer networking systems and languages to include Windows, Lunix, MAC OS or similar computer networks.
- Knowledge of computing and network hardware and peripheral equipment
- Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical personnel
- Ability to install, configure, and maintain personal computers, networks, and related hardware and software
- Knowledge of computer and/or network security systems, applications, procedures, and techniques
- Ability to identify and resolve computer system malfunctions and operational problems
- Skilled in organizing resources and establishing priorities
- Ability to provide technical training to end users
- Ability to learn and support new systems and applications
- Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
- Responsibilities may require evening and weekend work in response to needs of the systems being supported
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Business Analyst
Metabolix is an innovation-driven bioscience company providing sustainable, clean solutions to the world’s needs for plastics, fuels and chemicals. We take a systems approach, from gene to end product, to integrate sophisticated biotechnology with advanced industrial practice, and our technology is strongly patented with over 320 patents globally.
Position Requirements
- 2 to 3 years Market Analysis and Research Experience
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
- Financial Training will be helpful
- Extensive computer skills required – PowerPoint, Excel, Work, Database Management
Responsibilities
The business analyst will work on a variety of tasks across a number of platforms including oil seeds, biomass, C4 chemicals and chemical derivatives. Work to include:
- Analysis of markets
- Analysis of competitors
- Strategic option evaluation
- Financial modeling
- Process modeling
- Extensive interaction with Senior Management
Individual must be able to work with limited guidance and be comfortable operating independently.
Skills
- Strong analytical capabilities
- Producing high quality deliverables
- Ability to learn new business
- Ability to interact with Senior Management
Personal Attributes
- Demonstrated team player who works effectively alone and as part of a group
- Inquisitive
- Self motivated
- Organizational skills
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Helpdesk Support Technician
Founded in 1992, Metabolix is an innovation-driven bioscience company providing sustainable, clean solutions to the world’s needs for plastics, fuels and chemicals. We take a systems approach, from gene to end product, to integrate sophisticated biotechnology with advanced industrial practice, and our technology is strongly patented with over 320 patents globally.
Position Requirements
- Microsoft Certifications (MCP, MCSE) and/or an Associates Degree in Computer Science or related area preferred
- 2 years minimum experience
- Knowledge of PC operating systems (Windows 2000, Windows 2003, Windows XP and Mac OS) and networking and mail standards
- Experience with network infrastructure technologies such as printers, cabling, switches and routers
Responsibilities
- Log and prioritize calls
- Track technicians
- Provide reports as required regarding compliance with Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
- Respond to questions and resolve problems in an efficient timely manner
- E-mail troubleshoot
Skills
- Ability to provide assistance with virus and spyware remediation
- Ability to provide training to end-users
- Troubleshooting skills on wireless and internet connectivity
- Familiarity using helpdesk software for problem resolution
- Knowledge of the use of Microsoft Outlook/Exchange
Personal Attributes
- Must possess excellent communication, documentation and analytical skills
- Must have the ability to work in a team oriented environment
- Possess the skills to work independently and pay attention to detail
- Self motivated and well organized
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To apply for any of these positions, please send a cover letter referring to the position and resume to:
Human Resources
Metabolix, Inc.
21 Erie Street
Cambridge, MA 02139 email:
HRJobs@metabolix.com
fax: (617) 583-1767