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Molecular Biologist

CyanoCapture
Oxford
1 day ago
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Overview

CyanoCapture is a biotech company from the University of Oxford, using the forefront of bioengineering to create photosynthetic cells that can manufacture pharmaceutical products from CO2.

Job Description

As a Molecular Biologist in a VC‑backed early stage startup, you will be working on a first‑of‑its‑kind SynBio platform technology. This role requires comfort with high‑risk, the ability to thrive in the unknown, and a willingness to pursue challenging projects that are highly likely to fail.

Responsibilities

On a day‑to‑day basis you will:

  • Design and conduct your own laboratory projects as part of a team led by the Principal Scientist.
  • Develop a pipeline of novel patentable engineered strains of fast‑growing cyanobacteria.
  • Design cloning strategies and perform both in silico and wet‑lab work to engineer strains for de novo biosynthesis of high‑value recombinant proteins.
  • Take ownership of high‑priority projects, occasionally working out of hours to accelerate progress.
  • Consume dozens of papers weekly and think creatively about emerging opportunities.
Qualifications & Requirements
  • PhD or equivalent in a relevant field; BSc/MSc graduates with an exceptional aptitude are also encouraged to apply.
  • Basic lab competencies: PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA amplification, DNA assembly, cloning, BLAST.
  • Strong quantitative reasoning and statistical skills.
  • Solid understanding of cell biology, cloning, and genetics.
  • Competent in evaluating scientific literature and reasoning through unseen problems using first principles.
  • Creative problem‑solving and spotting new opportunities.
  • Previous experience working in a startup.
Compensation

25 days of paid annual leave + bank holidays. Up to 20 days of optional unpaid leave to pursue personal interests.

Working Hours

08:30 – 18:30 Monday – Friday (flexible). Respond to messages and emails from your team outside of working hours six days a week.

Travel

Opportunities to travel abroad for short durations for business, presenting research at conferences, or working on pilot projects.

Instructions

All candidates submitting a CV and cover letter, regardless of experience level or age, will be considered for this role. Do not email CVs if you have already submitted. Email any questions to .

If you have been shortlisted we will let you know on a rolling basis.

Process
  • Shortlisting on a rolling basis
  • Briefing phone call (15 mins)
  • Interview with the CEO (30 mins)
  • Reasoning skills online test (48 mins)
  • In‑person interview (45 mins)


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