Scientist, Cell Type Development (Neuro)

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 Scientist with a strong background in stem cells, cellular differentiation, cellular reprogramming/forward programming, and characterisation, to support our efforts in and the generation of a variety of cell types from pluripotent stem cells. This post is specifically focused on the derivation of cells within the neuroscience space.

As a Scientist within Cell Type Development, you will become the specialist of a specific cell type within the team. This will be achieved based on your previous knowledge and experience, or through actively generating the background knowledge required to become so. Reporting to a Principal Scientist along with the Director of Cell Type Development, the candidate will work with a team of researchers as a focal point within the wider R&D department for the generation of new cell types from pluripotent stem cells.

Your key responsibilities will include:

The development and execution of experimental assays to generate specific cell types of interest from human pluripotent stem cells, using cellular reprogramming approaches.
Analysis and interpretation of data from cellular reprogramming experiments, reporting of data, and experimental troubleshooting as required.
Working with collaborators within bit.bio, and beyond, to characterise the cell types of interest generated through the Cell Type Development process.
Facilitating technology transfer across teams within bit.bio.
Supporting the design, development, and implementation of the Cell Type Development team. This includes assay design/implementation/execution, LIMS/samples tracking, resource management, SOP writing and process development.
Contributing towards the completion of documentation and reports required during the Cell Type Development process and its milestone stage-gates.
In the collaboration with the leading Principal Scientist, support the cell line and experiment delivery to a wide variety of stakeholders.

You…

Have a PhD in a relevant area of Biological Sciences (or equivalent).
Have a background within the neuroscience space which can include culturing of various neuronal cell types, characterisation, functional assessments etc.
Are a good team player with an inquisitive mind and an ability to prioritise, organise and be responsible for your own workload.
Have the ability to work collaboratively between teams and specific platforms.
Have the ability to manage and prioritise own workload.
Will be looking for a stimulating and highly collaborative working environment where you can engage with different working groups to independently drive research projects and actively contribute to others.

With essential experience in...

Stem cell cell biology / cellular differentiation / cellular reprogramming.
Strong practical and theoretical background in hESC or hIPSC culture and differentiation/reprogramming or functional cell type expertise.
Strong practical and theoretical background in characterisation of cells in vitro – experiment planning, execution, and critical interpretation of generated data, and project delivery.

and possibly...

Well-rounded practical experience and knowledge of cellular assays and cellular phenotyping (e.g. immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry).
Well-rounded practical experience in molecular assays, molecular biology, and their downstream analysis (qRT-PCR, bulk and single cell RNA sequencing).
Good knowledge and experience of modern RNA sequencing technologies.
Experience and understanding of introducing novel workflows/processes and the development of screens for cellular differentiation.

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/privacy

Application Closing Date: 
10 March 2023