Laboratory Operations Associate

Hoofprint Biome is a venture-backed start-up that is leveraging biotechnology to avert the climate crisis. We are engineering enzymes and probiotics to eliminate methane emissions from cattle. We believe that cattle are a key pillar of sustainable agriculture and human nutrition, and eliminating their methane emissions will enable transformative progress in the fight against climate change.

We’re looking for a laboratory operations associate who is passionate about robust and innovative technology development. You must be motivated, comfortable with a fast-paced work environment, team oriented, and committed to building exceptional products. You will play a critical role in developing products for more sustainable animal agriculture and a healthier planet.

Based in vibrant downtown Durham, North Carolina, the company is working out of a brand-new lab space at the center of a fast-growing biotech and startup ecosystem. This role offers the chance to pursue ambitious science in a modern lab while enjoying great food, dynamic culture, and comfortable living in the heart of North Carolina.

We’re looking for people to help shape the future of Hoofprint Biome. Grow with us and help shape the future of human, animal, and planetary health.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate daily operations of a biotechnology laboratory, including management and maintenance of biological organisms, reagents, scientific consumables, scientific equipment.
• Manage laboratory ordering and procurement pipelines, including owning vendor relationships, cost management, and logistics.
• Directly assist with laboratory work and experiments, providing hands-on support with molecular biology, fermentation science, sample preparation, reagent preparation to facilitate efficient research and development.
• Adopt a versatile "pinch-hitter" approach to support a range of company needs that might arise at a small and growing company, including those that fall outside of traditional laboratory tasks.
• Solve problems across a wide range of disciplines, including biological, laboratory equipment, logistics, and general company operations.
• Maintain biosafety protocols and compliance, including management of biohazard waste or chemical waste.

Who you are/what you bring:

• BS in Biology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, Chemistry, Animal Science, or related field.
• At least 2 years of wet laboratory research experience. Experience with molecular biology, microbiology, bioprocessing, or fermentation science is a plus.
• Robust attention to detail.
• Familiarity with laboratory workflows and a strong ability to predict needs and resources for a variety of experiments.
• Facilitator mindset - eager to learn and support great science.
• Community oriented. Foster healthy connections and a positive atmosphere.
• Excellent organization skills.
• Proactive communicator.
• Creative approaches to problem solving. Be resourceful.
• Passion for scientific progress, sustainable agriculture, and climate change mitigation.
• Curiosity, intention, tenacity, team mindset, and accountability to the mission.
• Must love cows.

We offer competitive salary and equity options, and benefits include 401(k) and health, vision, dental, and life insurance. We value diversity in thought from people with all types of experiences, ethnicities, talents, ages, and ideas, and we especially encourage candidates from minority and disadvantaged groups to apply.