Lab Technician | Köln/Cologne

About Plasmidsaurus

Plasmidsaurus is on a mission to accelerate new cures and promote a healthier planet by unlocking a new level of productivity for scientists. Our sequencing services are used daily by thousands of innovators, including Nobel laureates, Fortune 100 pharma, and over 70,000 scientists.

We began by revolutionizing plasmid sequencing, making it exponentially cheaper and faster, with innovative sequencing technologies and a global network of laboratories that turn samples into answers in hours, not weeks.

Now we are expanding that same disruptive model across all of genomics. With the launch of our new RNA-seq service, we are taking a bold step toward our vision to sequence everything, providing scientists everywhere with faster, simpler, and more affordable access to the data that powers discovery.

Every team member at Plasmidsaurus plays a crucial role in driving the future of biotech research. Together, we are building the world’s most efficient sequencing engine that operates overnight, scales globally, and helps scientists make breakthroughs faster than ever before.

Work Hours

Full Time, In-Person.

Main shift: 4:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., Tuesday- Saturday.

Job Overview

Our Lab Technicians play a crucial role in our laboratory operations, focusing on the accurate and efficient execution of DNA library preparation and sequencing. You’re the one bringing results to the customers that speed up their work and discoveries! Lab Technicians are responsible for preparing samples, operating sequencing equipment, and ensuring the integrity of data.

Your job duties will include:

Sample Preparation: Perform and oversee hands-on processing of incoming samples, including accessioning, quality control of starting material, library preparation, and pooling.

Instrument Operation: Operate, maintain, and ensure optimal performance and maximum uptime of our sequencing instruments. Troubleshoot instrument issues effectively and implement preventative maintenance schedules.

Results Analysis: Review sequencing output, perform quality control, and conduct basic data analysis; collaborate with bioinformaticians for data interpretation.

Compliance and Documentation: Follow safety protocols and maintain accurate documentation.

Team Collaboration: Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, encouraging experimentation and the adoption of cutting-edge sequencing technology.

Logistic Responsibilities: Work hand in hand with our worldwide logistics team, coordinate with our logistics partners, and supply customers with shipping consumables, ensuring their timely and successful delivery to our lab.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be fluent in English and possess deep technical expertise in Oxford Nanopore Technology sequencing, library preparation automation, and quality control, with a strong focus on balancing rapid turnaround times with the highest data quality. We are looking for:

Lab Experience: Minimum of 2+ years of hands-on experience with DNA extraction, purification, and/or sequencing techniques. Bachelor's or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related field or training as BTA with a proven track record of several years of relevant experience

Problem Solver: Creative problem solver who can dig into an issue and figure out ways to resolve it.

Lifelong Learner: Curious and committed to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest scientific trends.

Detail-Oriented & Organized: Meticulous attention to detail and ability to stay organized while working on multiple projects at a time.

Proactive: Self-starter with a proactive attitude and the ability to work independently.

Communication: Excellent communication skills with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to clearly communicate ideas to people across lab locations.

Physical requirements: Must be able to sit and stand for long periods of time. Must be able to frequently lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects and inventory in the lab. Requires substantial movements of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. Requires close visual acuity to perform activities such as: pipetting; viewing a computer terminal; preparing and analyzing data and figures.

Interviews will be in English. We kindly ask that you submit your resume in English, as well.

Our Values

Build - We build cool stuff. Imagine a better world and build it. We want to do fun things, not boring things. We think from first principles to build complete solutions that no one else would. We seek to understand the underlying reason somebody wants something, and try to solve that, even if it wasn't what they were asking for. We are thought leaders.

Own - We take personal responsibility and ownership. Everything should be owned by someone. If you touch it, it's yours to make excellent. Know your top priorities, and make your work visible and impactful. Take pride, take responsibility, and make magic. Be active, present, and accountable.

Move - We value speed over perfection. Speed compounds. Be decisive and don't wait. If it's close to the end of the day, finish it now, not tomorrow. We're here because we want to make a difference and are willing to put in the work. Bias to action. Can-do over can't-do.

Participate - We don't stay in lanes. Speak up. Dissent. Engage. Share ideas early, question leaders, and collaborate publicly. Help teammates when you can. Expect your opinions to be heard, not always followed. Be prepared to debate and to disagree and commit. Feedback makes us stronger: give it with care, receive it with curiosity and an open mind.

Inspire - We are energized by working with incredible people. We're more like a sports team than a family. We are proactive about keeping our talent world-class. Great people attract great people; you are forever responsible for raising the bar.

We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't perfectly align with the job description as we seek out diverse and creative perspectives. Team members who love to learn and collaborate in an inclusive environment will thrive with us. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you need additional accommodations to feel comfortable during your interview process, please let us know at [email protected].