Constructive Bio is a VC-backed biotechnology startup based in Whittlesford, Cambridge. Our unique technology turns living cells into biofactories, creating sustainable new materials and therapeutics. With full control of the genetic sequence and code, we are exploring chemical space previously unreached by natural biology. 

Constructive Bio is a spinout from Professor Jason Chin's laboratory at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge. Learn more about the Chin lab achievements here: https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/ccsb/jason-chin/  

We recently secured $58 million Series A fundraising. Read more here: https://www.constructive.bio/blog/news/constructive-bio-secures-58-million-in-series-a-financing  

What we’re looking for: 

We are seeking a passionate protein scientist who thrives in the lab and LOVES expressing proteins! This role is perfect for someone who gets excited about achieving high titres, characterizing proteins, and troubleshooting bacterial expression systems. As a key member of the Biologics team, you will play a hands-on role in driving innovation and execution in protein expression, focusing on Escherichia coli. 

Responsibilities: 

• Expressing proteins in Escherichia coli with a focus on delivering high-quality results.
• Engineering and optimizing vectors to maximize protein expression levels.
• Continuously reviewing processes, troubleshooting issues, and implementing improved workflows.
• Exploring and applying new protein expression technologies and strategies as needed.
• Designing and executing experiments aligned with project goals.
• Managing day-to-day laboratory activities and ensuring the team operates efficiently.
• Drafting clear, detailed reports on experimental outcomes.
• Upholding Constructive Bio’s health and safety practices, including compliance with COSHH, biological agents, and GMO regulations as outlined in company risk assessments.
• Running and developing analytical assays, including protein quantitation, SDS-PAGE, CGE, Western blotting, and other characterization assays.
• Contributing to core activities and relevant projects, presenting your findings at internal meetings.
• Collaborating with other teams to integrate new developments into future projects.
• Maintaining meticulous documentation of all experimental work in line with Constructive Bio’s lab book standards. 

Requirements: 

• BSc/MSc/PhD in Life Sciences with substantial experience in bacterial expression systems.
• Expertise in molecular biology and protein science.
• At least 2 years of hands-on experience with expression of proteins in E. coli or other microbial systems in an industrial setting.
• Experience in designing constructs in SnapGene: vector selection, cassette design, cloning and validation.
• Proven proficiency in analytical techniques such as protein quantitation, SDS-PAGE, and Western blotting.
• Hands-on experience with cloning techniques, including Gibson assembly, plasmid characterization, and protein expression.
• Independent, proactive, and enthusiastic about protein expression.
• Strong communicator and team player with a rigorous scientific mindset.
• High attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
• A passion for continuous learning and improvement of technologies. 

Desirable skills:

• Experience in cell-based assay development.
• Familiarity with alternative microbial expression systems.
• Knowledge of stable expression systems. 

What’s in it for you? Why work at Constructive Bio?  

We are a small but rapidly growing team, with a vision to become the programmable biomolecules company and push the boundaries of what’s possible between biology and chemistry. As an early joiner, you will have a unique opportunity to help shape our trajectory and make real impact from day one.  

We offer:

• Newly fitted dedicated site in Whittlesford near Cambridge – on-site parking and regular trains to Cambridge, London and Norwich
• Competitive salary
• Employee share option plan
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Private health insurance
• Pension plan (matching up to 8%)
• Collaborative and pioneering environment, at the leading edge of synthetic genomics and engineered translation 

We want to build a team with trust and respect for each other and create a culture of collaboration, openness, curiosity, and scientific excellence.   

We are built on three principles: 

• We imagine: We think big and plan our own path for success.  
• We pioneer: We take action and grow together as one to break moulds. 
• We deliver: We take ownership and work together to deliver excellence.  

Constructive Bio is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.