Scientist: Upstream Mammalian

Scientist (Upstream AAV – Cell Biology) Location: Cambridge Contract: Full-time and permanent Sector: Biotechnology Salary: £29,000 - £33,000 depending on experience and interview performance. Our client is an innovative biotechnology company based outside of the centre of Cambridge. They have built a platform to synthesise DNA and RNA, providing exciting possibilities to manufacture cheaper, faster and more accurate DNA / gene constructs for use in gene therapies than traditional plasmid-based methods. They also run drug discovery projects within the gene therapy sector using adeno-associated viruses (AAV). In a key phase of their growth, our client is looking to bring a Junior Scientist into the team to support the AAV and cell biology section of the business. This role will require the successful candidate to have previous post-graduate experience in mammalian cell culture and transfection experience, ideally some AAV production experience. The Opportunity This is an opportunity for a junior scientist who holds a BSc/MSc in a Biology focused role with at least one year of experience within a post-graduate role. This can be gained during your degree, or in industry. This role will involve the following: * Mammalian cell culture, both adherent and suspension culture to product AAVs. This is an upstream focused position. * Conducting transfections (electroporation, transient, lipid-based, PEI etc) * Maintain cell cultures including HEK293 and other cell types. * Improve in-house processes for AAV production. * Characterisation of AAVs (occasionally). * Maintain lab equipment whilst complying with company health and safety practices. Skills and Experience Needed The ideal candidate will have the following: * BSc / MSc in a biology / biotechnology discipline (essential, equivalent experience is fine). * 1 year of post-graduate experience in mammalian cell culture work, ideally adherent and suspension (essential). * 1 year of post-graduate experience in transfections (plasmids containing the components to make AAV – often done via PEI, electroporation or lipid based methods) (essential). * Experience working with bioreactors (desired). * Previous AAV production and characterisation experience (desired). * Indefinite right to work in the UK without need for visa sponsorship now, or in the future (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 healthcare