JOB TITLE:
Research Associate - Molecular & Synthetic Biology
LOCATION:
Onsite – Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, UK (CB21 6GS)
SCHEDULE:
Standard Working Hours
DURATION:
11-Month Contract
EMPLOYMENT TYPE:
PAYE Only
PAY:
13-15 £ per hour
Job Overview
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the cutting edge of R&D in the biopharmaceutical industry
with a globally leading CDMO. The role is highly lab-focused and involves developing novel molecular and synthetic biology constructs, performing mammalian cell culture, and supporting high-throughput DNA assembly and analytical workflows. The successful candidate will also play a key role in maintaining laboratory standards and supporting ongoing R&D projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform 90–100% lab-based work, focused on generating new plasmids for expression of complex biological molecules.
- Conduct DNA sequencing processing and assessment.
- Culture mammalian cell lines in flasks and small-scale bioreactors.
- Perform analytical procedures, including high-throughput protein quantification and related assays.
- Prepare media and feeds from basal components.
- Write clear, high-quality technical reports and present findings to the R&D team.
- Maintain electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) to a high standard.
- Support routine laboratory maintenance, equipment upkeep, and organization.
- Demonstrate confidence with computers and a willingness to learn laboratory automation.
- Perform additional duties as required to support project and team needs.
Education Requirements
- BSc or MSc in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related biology-based discipline (required).
Experience & Skills
- Entry-level candidates with a strong academic or early industry background are encouraged to apply.
- Foundational knowledge of molecular biology techniques (required).
- Practical experience with mammalian cell culture techniques (preferred).
- Exposure to DNA assembly, plasmid generation, or protein expression workflows (preferred).
- Strong attention to detail, documentation, and teamwork skills.
- Computer literate.
- Good laboratory practice.
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