Development Scientist

Touchlight is pioneering the Synthetic DNA market.

Touchlight is focussed on the enzymatic synthesis of novel DNA formats.

Through the Covid pandemic, this quiet revolution has been propelled into the spotlight with the scale-up and proof of concept of RNA and DNA based vaccines. In addition, the stellar growth in viral and non-viral cell and gene therapy discovery and development has accelerated the need for a better quality, faster and more robust DNA manufacturing technology.

Our CDMO and technology is built on the conviction that DNA is fundamental to the future of medicine.

By moving away from today's restrictive biological approaches, we have made DNA manufacturing simple. Our unique dbDNA™ (or "doggybone" DNA) vector is optimised for use in advanced genetic medicines, being safer and more efficacious than conventional plasmid DNA. The platform, based on enzymatic technology, enables DNA production at unprecedented scale, speed and purity.

We are leveraging our platform to enable the next generation of Genetic Medicines.

Our CDMO Focus is on:

• Nucleic Acid Medicines (mRNA & DNA)
• ex-vivo & in-vivo cell and genetic medicines
• Gene therapy using viral vectors and gene editing
• Autologous & Allogenic cell therapy.

We are currently seeking an experiencedDevelopment Scientistto join us in our facilities in Hampton.

In thisexciting lab-based role, the candidate will be responsible forconducting experimentsand for thegeneration and capture of high-quality experimental datato support the next generation of critical processes. A key responsibility will be toexecute development projectswithsmall scale optimisationanddevelopmental screeningwithin firm timelines.

Withcareer progression prospectsas the organisation continues to grow, this is a great opportunity for someone who thrives in amultidisciplinary laboratoryenvironment, is efficient in their conduction of experiments/data capture, and can deliver to thehighest standardsunder the direction of the scientific management team.

The successful applicant will have exceptional skills inmulti-tasking & organisation. Scientificallycurious& consistentlyreliable, the applicant will need to fit well into a fast-paced high throughput environment with a keen desire to question, challenge & improve currently held assumptions & procedures.

We're keen to hear from you ifyou have:

• MSc or PhD inMolecular Biology / Biochemistryor other similar disciplines
• 2+ years industrial experiencegained in a Biotech and/or CDMO environment, or a PhD in a relevant area
• Background inplatform/process developmentand/orCMCwithin an industrial setting
• Ideally,strong molecular biological or chemical backgroundwith understanding of enzymatic reactions
• Desirably, familiarity withCapillary Electrophoresis (CE)
• Experience withlarge screening techniquesand/orDOE
• Excellentproblem-solving skillswith the ability to react swiftly & decisively when faced with challenges
• Willingness to challenge currently held assumptions – plan, test and engage with continuous improvement.

Touchlight Benefits

Touchlight is a successful scale-up business with a record of world-leading innovation and a welcoming, entrepreneurial culture. We make Touchlight an extraordinary place to work by providing our employees with incredible facilities, flexible working and a competitive benefits and remuneration package.

A Place for Everyone

We believe diversity drives innovation and for that reason we strongly encourage those from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Touchlight. We are an equal opportunity employer and aim to build a workforce that is truly representative of the communities in which we operate and our customers.

If you need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please speak with the HR team who will be happy to support you.