Plasmid Production Co-op
Posted on 9/22/2025

Orna Therapeutics
No salary listed
Belmont, MA, USA
In Person
Orna Therapeutics, Inc. is a Watertown-based biotechnology startup on a mission to create therapies for diseases inaccessible to existing approaches. Built on novel circular RNA technology developed at MIT, Orna is leading the next wave of RNA therapeutics with our best-in-class expression and delivery platform.
We are seeking an exceptional Plasmid Production Co-op with a strong enthusiasm to learn about the Biotech Industry to join our team. The ideal candidate for this role is detail-oriented with a basic understanding of bacterial cloning and molecular biology techniques. In addition, a successful candidate would be expected to possess strong written and oral communication skills needed for a highly collaborative environment. This candidate would gain firsthand experience performing reagent preparation, culturing, bacterial cloning, small/large scale plasmid purification, and characterization of DNA in a fast-paced environment, reporting into our Plasmid team.
Responsibilities
- Assist in media preparation, bacterial culturing, transformation, clonal selection, plasmid extraction, DNA purification, and cell banking
- Support molecular biology characterization of various templates, including but not limited to fragment analyzer, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing preparation/analysis
- Maintain up-to-date and detailed records of laboratory procedures, results, and conclusions in electronic lab notebook system
- Execute and design experiments in collaboration with overall Production team to meet timelines and deliverables
- Assist in data management and trending
- Provide hands-on assistance with good lab practices (i.e. inventory creation and maintenance; lab organization and safety compliance; equipment tracking, maintenance and service issues; etc)
- Deliver verbal updates or oral presentations during internal scheduling meetings
Qualifications
- Undergraduate majoring in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related fields
- Ability to follow established protocols, critically analyze scientific concepts/experimental data, work independently within a team environment, learn new technical skills, and manage time effectively
- Preferred basic laboratory skills include but are not limited to pipetting and gel electrophoresis techniques
- Basic knowledge of principles related to cloning and plasmid purification preferred
Why work at Orna?
In addition to working alongside bright and hardworking colleagues, you’ll have the opportunity to experience an array of benefits throughout your time with us, including:
- Invitations to company outings and social events
- Opportunities to meet with our Executive and Management teams
- Participation in department specific and organization wide meetings and trainings
- Various personal and professional development opportunities
- Transportation or parking expenses
- Company swag
- Coverage under MA Sick Time and MA Paid Family and Medical Leave
- Paid holidays, except company shutdowns, and two days of vacation, eligible after a 90-day probationary period
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Individuals seeking employment at Orna Therapeutics are considered without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
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