Based at Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK

Company Overview
Leaf Expression Systems is a contract development business specialising in the plant-based
expression and production of proteins, metabolites and complex natural products for research and
biomedical applications using a proprietary, transient expression technology, Hypertrans®.

Broad Description
The successful candidate will work in our purpose built state-of-the-art facility as part of the
downstream purification team developing and validating protein purification processes for various
high value proteins and complex natural products derived from plants. The role will be responsible
for applying a variety of techniques (FPLC (ÄKTA), micro and ultrafiltration, SDS-PAGE,
biophysical analysis and biochemical assays) to deliver research and non-clinical grade products
to a variety of specifications for both internal and commercial customer projects.

Key responsibilities and accountabilities
1. Work independently and with other members of the Leaf Expression Systems team to deliver
new product development projects to agreed milestones and timelines.

2. Develop and optimise purification processes for protein products for use by Leaf Expression
Systems in both R&D and for customers. Apply techniques, such as filtration and FPLC, to
ensure process scalability and commercial viability of products.

3. Perform finished product analytical testing and write standard operating procedures (SOPs) and
batch manufacturing records for processes that have been developed in the laboratory to support
reproducibility and technology transfer activities.

4. Ensure that technological advances are taken into consideration in downstream processing
activities by keeping abreast of the literature and attending conferences.

5. Support the implementation of appropriate environmental, health and safety management
systems to ensure ongoing compliance with regulatory authorities and customer expectations.

6. Work with the Process Development Manager in preparing proposals for new customer’s projects
whilst ensuring all downstream operating budgets deliver the business goals and individual
project costs.

7. Working with relevant parties, participate in the writing of grant funding requests using requisite
knowledge regarding protein purification and techniques.

8. Support the Process Development Manager by undertaking ongoing training and support of
junior team members and technicians.

Qualifications and Experience
Essential
1. BSc/MSc degree in biochemistry, biology, biotechnology or an associated life science.

2. Minimum 2 years practical experience in the research, development and scale-up of protein
purification using techniques including fast protein liquid chromatography, micro and
ultrafiltration, SDS-PAGE and western blotting.

3. Hands-on experience of performing protein characterisation using biochemical and/or
biophysical assays.

4. A team player with excellent problem-solving skills, good scientific judgement and
communication skills with a methodical and open-minded approach to dealing with challenges.

Desirable
1. PhD in biochemistry, biology, biotechnology or an associated life science.

2. Industry experience of downstream processing within a biopharmaceutical manufacturing
environment, contract research or contract manufacturing organization.

3. Practical experience of VLP and/or antibody purification at scale.

4. Knowledge of plant-based expression systems.

Key Requirements
1. Eligibility to work in the United Kingdom

Employer Leaf Expression Systems
Location Norwich, UK
Salary Negotiable
Contact Ross Overman / Rebecca Holland
Discipline Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Botany/Plant Science, Drug
Development & Discovery
Result Type Jobs
Position Type Permanent
Hours Full Time

Apply [email protected]