Full job descriptionScientist (Upstream AAV – Cell Biology)
Location: Cambridge
Contract: Full-time and permanent
Sector: Biotechnology
Salary: £29,000 - £33,000 depending on experience and interview performance.


Our client is an innovative biotechnology company based outside of the centre of Cambridge. They have built a platform to synthesise DNA and RNA, providing exciting possibilities to manufacture cheaper, faster and more accurate DNA / gene constructs for use in gene therapies than traditional plasmid-based methods. They also run drug discovery projects within the gene therapy sector using adeno-associated viruses (AAV). In a key phase of their growth, our client is looking to bring a Junior Scientist into the team to support the AAV and cell biology section of the business. This role will require the successful candidate to have previous post-graduate experience in mammalian cell culture and transfection experience, ideally some AAV production experience.


The Opportunity
This is an opportunity for a junior scientist who holds a BSc/MSc in a Biology focused role with at least one year of experience within a post-graduate role. This can be gained during your degree, or in industry. This role will involve the following:
*Mammalian cell culture, both adherent and suspension culture to product AAVs. This is an upstream focused position.
*Conducting transfections (electroporation, transient, lipid-based, PEI etc)
*Maintain cell cultures including HEK293 and other cell types.
*Improve in-house processes for AAV production.
*Characterisation of AAVs (occasionally).
*Maintain lab equipment whilst complying with company health and safety practices.


Skills and Experience Needed
The ideal candidate will have the following:
*BSc / MSc in a biology / biotechnology discipline (essential, equivalent experience is fine).
*1 year of post-graduate experience in mammalian cell culture work, ideally adherent and suspension (essential).
*1 year of post-graduate experience in transfections (plasmids containing the components to make AAV – often done via PEI, electroporation or lipid based methods) (essential).
*Experience working with bioreactors (desired).
*Previous AAV production and characterisation experience (desired).
*Indefinite right to work in the UK without need for visa sponsorship now, or in the future (essential).


The Package
As an up-and-coming Cambridge Biotech, our client is able to offer a competitive salary, progression options and benefits package including private pension and private healthcare.