About the role
The primary role of the Research Fellow will be to lead and execute experimental studies focused on the bioprocessing and scalable production of mRNA and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for gene therapy applications. This will involve developing and optimising manufacturing processes, investigating critical process parameters, and improving the efficiency, consistency, and quality of mRNA-LNP formulations. Key responsibilities will include the development of scalable protocols for mRNA synthesis and purification, formulation and characterisation of lipid nanoparticles, and the integration of these processes into continuous and large-scale production workflows. The role will also require expertise in bioreactor operations, upstream and downstream processing, and quality control methodologies. The candidate will establish and optimise new assays and experimental protocols to evaluate product stability, encapsulation efficiency, and gene delivery efficacy. Familiarity with current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) standards and regulatory requirements is essential, as is an understanding of the commercial landscape of mRNA-LNP-based therapeutics. In addition to leading their research programme, the Research Fellow will play a central role in managing and supporting projects within the CGTB Group. This includes mentoring doctoral students, collaborating with external industrial and academic partners, and contributing to the development of new initiatives in the field of mRNA and LNP bioprocessing.
About you
To succeed in this role you will have: • A PhD awarded (or about to be) in a relevant subject. This may include biotechnology, biochemical engineering, or molecular biology with relevance to bioprocessing, analytics, and an interest in scalable manufacture of mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) therapeutics for gene therapy applications. • Experience in mRNA production, LNP formulation, and characterisation for in vivo gene delivery applications. • Training and experience in bioprocess development, including the use of bioreactors for scalable production. • Experience with product characterisation assays, including particle size analysis, encapsulation efficiency, mRNA integrity (, gel electrophoresis), and biological activity assays such as in vitro transfection and gene expression analysis (, qPCR, ELISA).
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)• Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan• Immigration loan• Relocation scheme for certain posts• On-Site nursery• On-site gym• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service• Discounted medical insurance
