Location: Chesterford Research Park, Little Chesterford, CB10 1XL
Job Type: Full-time
Work Remotely: No
Broken String Biosciences is a Cambridge-based genomics company with the goal of developing safer cell and gene therapies by assessing the stability of the genome. We are leveraging state of the art genomic sequencing technologies to better understand the factors that determine on and off-target activity during CRISPR genome editing. Starting with our first patented technology, INDUCE-seq, which for the first time enables precise digital mapping of DNA double strand breaks in the genome, Broken String Biosciences is building a suite of genomics technologies that will assess all elements of genetic safety during the genome editing process. This will provide the information required to design CRISPR gene therapies that are fundamentally safer, ensuring that this potentially life-saving technology can be delivered to patients.
We recently graduated from the global Illumina Accelerator program in Cambridge UK, and completed our first major fundraising event. With offices based at the BioData Innovation Centre (BIC) on the world-renowned Wellcome Genome Campus, and a new lab at the Chesterford Research Park, this is an exciting opportunity to join a well-funded and fast-paced start-up in the CRISPR and genomics space at an early stage.
Position overview
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Laboratory Operations Manager to join our growing team and support the establishment and management of our new lab facility based at the Chesterford Research Park.
As our Laboratory Operations Manager, you will be responsible for the set-up, operational running, and management of all laboratory activities. You will have direct experience managing lab facilities, relationships with vendors, and teams within a fast-paced and dynamic science-driven environment.
You will deploy your technical skill by overseeing and assisting in the processing of biological samples in a range of CRISPR gene editing safety applications. This includes preparing INDUCE-seq NGS libraries according to standard operating procedures, performing QC analysis, planning sequencing runs, and reporting outcomes to the wider team. This work forms part of existing projects focussed on CRISPR genome editing analysis in partnership with several world-leading cell- and gene therapy companies. Longer term, the role will support the development of novel sequencing technologies for assessing CRISPR genome editing safety that will form a core part of our R&D pipeline.
At Broken String Bio things change fast and frequently, so we are looking for someone who is dynamic and adaptable to change. You are the ideal candidate if you are looking to take a leading role in the establishment of our laboratory and make an impact as part of a growing team.
Role & Key Responsibilities
• Oversee the design and build-out of lab space at a new location
• Maintain and optimize processes within the lab to increase efficiency and effectiveness, including the procurement of lab consumables and the scheduling of experiments and associated equipment
• Coordinate the ordering, delivery, installation and maintenance of lab equipment, including through service contracts, preventive maintenance, calibration, etc
• Ensure lab consumables are adequately stocked
• Establish and implement lab management procedures; create and manage associated documentation
• Anticipate, troubleshoot, and resolve operational problems, and address lab emergencies if they arise
• Coordinate lab deliveries, shipments and waste removal
• Oversee and support the lab team with all elements of sample preparation, taking a hands-on approach when required
• Oversee lab safety and regulatory compliance, including tracking of biologics, chemicals, and hazardous materials, and implementing PPE policies and lab safety rules
• Manage lab safety program, including via training and safety committees
• Coordinate with wider office team and management to ensure the smooth running of laboratory activities.
Essential skills and qualifications
• MSc. or BSc. in the life sciences field with a strong background in molecular biology and experience in NGS-related projects
• 5+ years of experience working in a biotech / pharmaceutical lab environment
• Experience with tissue culture and aseptic techniques for cellular and molecular biology
• Familiarity with NGS library preparation methods and Illumina sequencing
• Experience with working at scale in a 96-well format
• Strong interpersonal skills; effective and proactive communication and ability to collaborate with a wide array of personalities and work styles, and across functional areas.
Preferred skills and qualifications
• Experience with CRISPR genome editing methods and analysis
• Experience running and managing Illumina sequencing instruments
• Experience supervising/ mentoring laboratory staff.
Salary: Competitive with benefits and participation in company share option scheme
Reporting to: CEO and CSO