Senior Research Scientist - Protein and cell science

Senior Research Scientist – protein/antibody engineering and cell science

Based in Cambridge, UK

We are looking for an independent and enthusiastic Senior Research Scientist with industrial experience to hit the ground running. In this predominantly lab-based role, you will lead protein and antibody engineering activities, reporter cell line creation, and run assays for the discovery and characterization of novel antibodies targeting innate immunity cells in the tumour microenvironment. You will also play an essential role in the identification of mechanism of action of lead molecules. This is a unique opportunity to be involved in the company in its early days and to have a tangible impact on its success.

Tasks and responsibilities for the successful candidate would include:
• Designing expression vectors
• Recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization
• Antibody engineering, expression and purification
• Characterization of antibodies
• Mammalian cells engineering
• Biochemical and cell assay development
• Analysis and interpretation of complex data and reporting key outcomes to the management
• Staying on top of the current literature
• Ensure accurate recording of and reporting of data
• Train and coach less experienced members of the team
• Actively engage across the organization

Essential Skills
• Extensive experience with recombinant protein expression in various systems (bacterial and mammalian), and relevant protein purification techniques (batch and column based)
• Antibody sequence analysis, engineering, expression and purification, preferentially in the industrial setting (including antibody re-formatting)
• Cell and tissue culture, genetic manipulation in cells (established and primary cell lines, KO, RNAi)
• Experience with the development of biochemical and cell assays for recombinant protein and antibody characterization (phenotypic assays, ELISA, HTRF, Flow cytometry)
• PhD/Post-doc or equivalent industrial experience with proven track record evidenced by first author publications / patent authorship
• Designing and managing multiple projects in academic or industrial (preferentially) setting
• Ability to define individual protocols and large experimental blocks of work to answer key questions around biochemistry, pharmacology (mechanisms of action) to guide project team decisions
• Ability to analyse and report on large datasets
• Knowledge of relevant Health and Safety legislation
• Ability to keep neat and accurate records including using computerized systems
• Flexible and able to work independently with a degree of autonomy and ownership
• Ability to work effectively under pressure with conflicting demands
• Effective at communicating and liaising at all levels
• Ability to engage wider team with strategy, plans and novel ideas
• A team player attitude