RNA Molecular Biologist

Location: Cambridge

Contract: Full-time and permanent

Sector: Biotechnology / Drug Discovery

Salary: £25,000 - £32,000 depending on experience

Our client is an innovative biotechnology company based outside of the centre of Cambridge. They have built a platform to synthesis DNA which provides exciting possibilities for ensuring cheaper, faster and more accurate DNA / gene constructs than traditional plasmid-based methods. In a key phase of their growth, our client is looking to onboard experienced Scientists in the field of cellular and molecular biology to support the development of their synthetic RNA technologies.

The Opportunity

This is an opportunity for a Scientist with a BSc or MSc and additional industry (preferred), or post-graduate experience in a cellular / nucleic acid setting. As a Scientist within the RNA team, you will be responsible for:

• Conducting a wide range of molecular biology based experiments in relation to Syntethic DNA, mRNA synthesis and gene expression.
• Supporting a range of synthetic DNA and RNA projects for external collaborators, as well as some internal R&D projects.
• Optimising the DNA to in vitro RNA conversion process and subsequent RNA purification.
• Conduct cell-based assays (luciferase / reporter assays) to evaluate immune response to RNA.
• Plan, refine and execute experiments which align with overall project plans.
• Work individually and collaboratively within the R&D teams.
• Play an active role in departmental meetings and development meetings.
• Keep a comprehensive and up-to-date record of experiments and data/results

Skills and Experience Needed

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• BSc/MSc in a biological discipline + industry experience in molecular or cellular biology, ideally RNA focused. (essential – straight MSc graduates will be considered and equivalent experience welcome)
• Expertise in several of the following techniques (capillary electrophoresis, polyacrylamide electrophoresis, RNA quantification, DNA quantification, flow cytometry, ELISA) (essential)
• Experience in one of the following techniques (cell reporter assays i.e. luciferase, B-galactosidase or GFP, cell transfection (desired)
• Experience in troubleshooting and developing laboratory protocols (desired)
• Excellent communication skills (essential)
• Existing right to work in the UK (essential)

The Package

As an up-and-coming Cambridge Biotech, our client is able to offer a competitive salary, progression options and benefits package including private pension and private health insurance.