Scientist, Cell Biology Research

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 a motivated and skilled scientist with a strong background in stem cell biology and differentiation principles (embryonic development and/or cellular reprogramming), combined with transcriptomic and/or epigenetic characterization of cell states to join the Cell Biology Research Team supporting our efforts in deciphering the molecular mechanisms governing cellular identity and its reprogramming.

Reporting to a senior member of the team, the candidate will work with stem cell experts investigating fundamental questions in cellular reprogramming, establishment of cellular subtypes and adult cell maturity, using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hIPSC) as source material. This work will help improve bit.bio’s cell type development platform, including research and clinical products, within the wider R&D department.

You will be a primary planner of and contributor to experimental activities at the bench to drive projects forward, responsible for delivering and reporting experimental results to the team and wider stakeholders at bit.bio, as well as facilitating technology and knowledge transfer across teams within the company.

Your key responsibilities will include:

Designing hypothesis-based experiments, executing them and interpreting results critically to answer research questions pertaining to Cell Biology Research team projects, with support from senior scientists.
Interacting with other R&D team members to help identify critical research questions and work collaboratively, facilitating technology and knowledge transfer across teams within bit.bio.
Supporting junior members of the team by providing intellectual and practical support where needed.
Ensuring data capture, analysis, interpretation, reporting and recording in accordance with bit.bio QMS standards.
Contributing to the development of bit.bio’s credentials through the communication of scientific advances at conferences, publications in peer-review journals, preparation of patent applications and scientific support to BD activities.
Working in collaboration with other Departments to meet the company's R&D objectives.

You…

Have a PhD in a relevant area of Biological Sciences or equivalent.
Are a motivated lab scientist demonstrating initiative, strong scientific knowledge, analytical thinking, high scientific rigour, operational skills and work standards.
Have a passion for tackling fundamental questions, especially related to cell identity, cell state transitions and transcriptional regulation.
Are a genuine and proactive team player with an inquisitive mind and an ability to prioritise, organise and be responsible for your own workload.
Are looking for a stimulating working environment where you can engage with different working groups to independently perform research projects and mutually contribute to each other’s projects.
Are resilient and able to work well under pressure.

With essential experience in...

Hypothesis-based experimental design, delivery and interpretation of results with critical thinking and rigour.
Strong practical and theoretical background in stem cell biology, including transcriptomic and epigenetic data generation and understanding of analyses, including techniques like single cell and bulk RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq.
Proficient in core mammalian cell biology techniques including sterile tissue culture, molecular phenotyping (e.g. immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, qPCR) and basic molecular biology protocols.
Working and performing in a highly collaborative environment, being able to prioritise workload.

and possibly...

Practical experience on in vitro differentiation models from pluripotent stem cells (e.g. for immune cells).
Experience with bioinformatic data analyses (e.g. RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq datasets)

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

Application Closing Date: 
31 March 2023