Scientist/Senior Scientist, Synthetic Biology
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 highly motivated and talented scientists to join the Synthetic Biology team at bit.bio. Successful candidates will join a multifaceted Functional Genomics department which also includes teams dedicated to NGS, Automation, Cell Engineering, Technology Development and Discovery Screening.
This role within the Synthetic Biology team is focussed on establishing and developing systems and platforms for the high throughput generation and evaluation of novel technologies to ensure bit.bio remains at the forefront of iPSC reprogramming and mammalian synthetic biology.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Supporting the design, development, and implementation of a programme of work to ensure bit.bio remains at the forefront of iPSC programming and generating new mammalian synthetic biology tools (e.g., genetic circuits, novel inducible expression systems, logic gates, etc). This will be achieved by:
Implementing appropriate high throughput assays to functionally characterise large and/or combinatorial libraries (e.g., scRNAseq and massively parallel reporter assays).
Designing and executing high throughput, modular and automated DNA assembly platforms for plasmid and library generation
Influencing and supporting the wider scientific and manufacturing bit.bio community.
Engaging and influencing external collaborators and suppliers by initiating, developing, and driving collaborations which are critical to the goals of the team and company.
Overseeing development and training activities - coaching individuals to perform their roles effectively.
Presenting findings at regular internal and external meetings.
Actively leading in developing and maintaining the core cultural aspects of the company.
Deputising for the team leader as required.
You…
Have a PhD in a relevant area of biological sciences (e.g., Synthetic Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology, or a related area) or equivalent experience.
Are creative, with a passion for problem solving and synthetic biology
Are able to manage and prioritise own workload and the workload of others
Are a strong team player with excellent networking skills and a proven ability to influence on scientific and non-scientific matters
You will be looking for a stimulating working environment where you can engage with different working groups to independently drive research projects and actively contribute to projects of others.
With essential experience in...
Strong and demonstrable experience of designing and executing multiple DNA assembly methods (e.g., Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate cloning, etc.).
Well-rounded and practical experience of synthetic biology techniques (e.g., modular DNA assembly, pooled library generation, NGS) and molecular assays (e.g., RT-qPCR, ddPCR).
and possibly..
Practical and theoretical background in mammalian cell culture and engineering.
Experience of designing and implementing synthetic biology tools (e.g., genetic circuits, novel inducible expression systems, logic gates, etc) in cellular systems.
Good knowledge and experience of modern high throughput genomic screening technologies and analysis of NGS data.
Experience in the use and incorporation of automated workflows.
Experience and knowledge of cellular assays and cell phenotyping (e.g., FACS, IHC, clonogenic, cytotoxicity and viability assays).
Familiarity with advanced programming languages (e.g., C#, Python).
Experience and understanding of introducing novel workflows/processes and development of platforms for reagent delivery.
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.
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