Research Assistant/Scientist, Cell Engineering
at Bit Bio
Cambridge, UK
bit.bio is an award-winning spinout from the University of Cambridge. Our breakthrough technology combines synthetic and stem cell biology for the precise, efficient and consistent reprogramming of human cells used in research, drug discovery, and cell therapy. At bit.bio, we are passionate about engineering human cells that will enable the medicine of the future. To do this we need talented and curious people who want to make an impact on the future of science and therapeutics.
As a team of individuals, we value science, collaboration, openness, curiosity and creativity. We are united by trust and respect for each other.
Location: Babraham Research Park, Cambridge
Type: Full time, permanent /
Start: Immediate
Salary: Competitive / Hours: 40 p/w
Lab based position
Your role in our team:
We are looking for Scientists and Research Assistants with experience in and enthusiasm for cellular engineering, tissue culture, and molecular biology to plan, perform and evaluate genome engineering in human iPSCs.
Reporting to a senior member of the Cell Engineering team, you will work closely with the wider Functional Genomics Teams (including Automation, Technology Development and Translational Medicine) to develop, implement, and execute gene editing techniques; building and providing a robust, state of the art service which pertains to company-wide Objectives and Key Results (OKRs). More experienced recruits will also be expected to assist in the management, training and development of Cell Engineering staff.
Your key responsibilities will include: (Scientist – S, Research Assistant - RA)
Support the design, development and implementation of a state-of-the-art Cellular Engineering platform. This includes assay design, implementation, execution, LIMS/sample tracking, resource management, and technical process development, with considerations relevant to both commercial/research and GMP enabling cell products (S/RA).
Execution of contemporary gene editing technologies (CRISPR based knock-out and knock-in strategies), primarily in human iPSCs (S/RA).
Work in concert with the Functional Genomics Technology Development and Automation teams to incorporate novel technologies which enhance the capacity and capabilities of our platforms (S/RA).
Take responsibility for cell line delivery and become the point of contact for internal stakeholder groups (Translational Medicine, Cell Type Development, and manufacturing), and external academic and contract research organisations (S/RA).
Line management responsibility of 1-2 direct reports. Oversee development and training activities; coach individuals to perform their roles effectively (S).
Engage and influence wider bit.bio scientific and manufacturing community, external collaborators (and suppliers) (S/RA).
Be involved in initiating, developing and driving collaborations which are critical to the achievements of the team and company Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) (S).
Highlight areas of risk and opportunities to improve efficiency and expedient delivery of work tasks or deliverables (S/RA).
Be aware of and actively engage in seeking training opportunities - attend internal and external seminars (S/RA).
Actively lead in developing and maintaining the core cultural aspects of the company (S/RA).
You…
Scientists - have a PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant area of Biological Sciences and proven practical experience in Cell Engineering and problem solving (S).
Research Assistants - have a degree in Biological Sciences or relevant experience/understanding of Cell Engineering (RA).
Are a good team player, with an inquisitive mind.
You are looking for a fast paced and stimulating working environment where you can engage with different working groups to independently drive forward your own projects and actively contribute to others.
You enjoy working with a variety of different teams, troubleshooting and implementing new technologies and protocols, and are well adept at prioritising, organising, documenting and taking responsibility for your own workload.
With essential experience in...
Strong demonstrable practical and theoretical background in iPSC culture (S/RA).
Good theoretical understanding of modern gene editing techniques, experiment QC and project delivery (S/RA).
Demonstrable experience and/or understanding of genotyping strategies and interpretation of genotyping results (S/RA).
Practical experience and/or a demonstrable understanding of molecular processes including DNA extraction, PCR, ddPCR and DNA sequencing (S/RA).
Track record of optimising protocols including the experimental design and empirical assessment of alterations to, or troubleshooting established Technical Protocols (S/RA).
Ability to prioritise, organise and take responsibility for your own workload (S/RA).
and possibly..
Growth/adaptable mindset.
Working within a GMP or GMP-enabling environment.
Experience in the use and incorporation of automated workflows.
Ability to use sequence manipulation software (such as Seq Builder, Snapgene, Benchling).
Experience of using Electronic Laboratory Notebooks.
Proven ability to communicate research outputs, through written and/or oral communication, research articles or publications.
Well-rounded practical experience and knowledge of cellular assays and cell phenotyping (FACS, ICC, clonogenic, cytotoxicity and viability).
Experience and understanding of introducing novel workflows/processes and development of platforms for reagent delivery.
Line management experience.
Experience or good understanding of molecular cloning techniques (Golden Gate/ Gibson).
Ability to engage, motivate and develop others.
More reasons to join us:
bit.bio provides a vibrant and dynamic work environment in an exciting, fast-moving time for biology. We work with cutting edge technologies and with our world-leading scientific advisory board. We conduct pioneering work with real-world impact.
We trust our people to make significant contributions early on with opportunities to be involved in projects that are key to the success and growth of our young company. We invest in people, creating opportunities for personal development in an inclusive multi-skilled team with ambitious goals that provide opportunities to learn on the job from each other.
Creativity and open minds are encouraged for everyone to contribute to the success of the company.
For information on how we will manage your data please see our Candidate Privacy Notice- https://www.bit.bio/candidate-privacy-notice