Role: Scientist / Senior Scientist – Molecular Biology

Location:Glasgow, UK

Start date:March 2025

Period:Full time, permanent

Closing Date for Applications:10th January 2025

Compensation:£35,000-£45,000 p.a. depending on experience

About this job

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled molecular biologist to join our dynamic team, focused on leveraging our proprietary platform to develop novel gene control systems for the cell and gene therapy space. As one of the first hires in our growing company, you will have the unique opportunity to help expand and scale our technology platform and help us shape the future of gene therapies.

About Concinnity

Concinnity Genetics is a venture-backed biotechnology company that designs novel control mechanisms for the cell and gene therapy market using our innovative AI platform and synthetic biology expertise. Our platform enables the design, building and screening of large & complex libraries of RNA-based control systems, to allow the precise control of cell and gene therapies in response to a diverse range of molecules. By enabling precise control mechanisms, Concinnity’s unique RNA-based systems will transform the safety of cell and gene therapies.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform the key experimental work required to develop novel control systems using Concinnity’s proprietary platform
• Perform mammalian cell culture techniques such as transfection and maintenance of cell lines
• Perform molecular biology techniques including RNA/DNA extraction, cloning and plasmid preparation, PCR, reverse transcription, restriction digest and gel electrophoresis, and preparation of RNA/DNA samples for NGS analysis
• Optimise and carry out cell-based and other assays (e.g. fluorometric, luciferase, ELISA, qPCR)
• Working within a multidisciplinary team, execute experiments to a high standard and on schedule, to provide accurate data for seamless transition to subsequent project stages
• Demonstrate strong teamwork and a focus on achieving shared goals with a commitment to high-quality outcomes
• Additionally, for the senior scientist position:
• Assisting with the design of experiments, including helping to identify the most effective methodologies and develop protocols and assays
• Troubleshooting experiments and providing practical solutions to overcome technical challenges, ensuring project timelines are met
• Supervision and training of more junior members of staff

Skills

Essential

• Experience in core molecular biology techniques including design of plasmids and cloning strategies, molecular cloning, plasmid preparation and characterisation of nucleic acids by standard methods (e.g. gel electrophoresis, restriction digest, Sanger sequencing, etc.)
• Experience in mammalian cell culture techniques including transfection, cell counting, maintenance, splitting and freezing/thawing
• Experience performing analytical techniques such as fluorometric microplate assays, qPCR, and ELISA
• Enthusiasm to learn new approaches and concepts and to work alongside a computational biology team
• Ability to ensure consistent and reproducible work and maintain appropriate documentation
• Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team, with excellent communication, organisation and record-keeping skills

Desirable

• Demonstrated ability to develop, optimise and troubleshoot complex biological assays
• Strong understanding of mammalian gene regulation and molecular / cell biology
• At least two years’ experience working in an industrial / GxP regulated research laboratory setting
• Experience working with RNA samples
• Experience working with primary cells and in CL-2 environments
• Experience using electronic lab notebooks
• Ability to effectively relay information to both computational and experimental scientists
• Knowledge of experimental design principles for studies involving animal models
• IOSH or NEBOSH qualifications and the ability to take on certain H&S responsibilities is a bonus

Qualifications

• PhD (or equivalent professional experience) in molecular, cell or synthetic biology or other related field, with at least 2 additional years in a research laboratory setting desirable

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