Lipid Nanoparticle Scientist

Location: Cambridge

Contract: Full-time and permanent

Sector: Biotechnology / Drug Discovery

Salary: £26,000 - £31,000

Our client is an innovative biotechnology company based outside of the centre of Cambridge. They have built a platform to synthesise DNA which provides exciting possibilities for ensuring cheaper, faster and more accurate DNA / gene constructs than traditional plasmid-based methods. In a key phase of their growth, our client is looking to onboard experienced Scientists in the field of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation.

This is an opportunity for a Scientist with a BSc or MSc (either a graduate, or with some industry experience) with experience in a nanoparticle / drug delivery biology setting, ideally with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). If you have experience in this sector and are looking for the next step in your career then this opportunity could be for you. As a Scientist within the nanoparticle formulation team you will be responsible for:

• Formulating, producing, characterising and validating lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for use as gene delivery vectors.
• Using a wide range of characterisation equipment (DLS, zeta potential, SAXS / SANS, electron microscopy).
• Analysis of data from experiments and correct reporting of this data in line with company guidelines.
• Plan, refine and execute experiments which align with overall project plans.
• Work individually and collaboratively within the R&D teams.
• Handling LNP payloads including mRNA and other nucleic acids.
• Play an active role in departmental meetings and development meetings.
• Keep a comprehensive and up-to-date record of experiments and data/results.

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• BSc/MSc in a Chemistry / Biochemistry / Biological (or other relevant sector) (essential).
• Prior experience in nanoparticle synthesis and characterisation, ideally Lipid nanoparticles (essential - could have done a lab-based dissertation focused on LNP synthesis for example).
• Expertise within nanoparticle characterisation tools such as DLS, TFF, SAXS/SANS, HPLC, electron microscopy, as well as purification techniques (essential).
• Prior knowledge or experience within DNA/RNA handling, gel electrophoresis, qubit / nanodrop etc (desired).
• Experience in troubleshooting and developing laboratory protocols (desired).
• Excellent communication skills (essential).
• Indefinite right to work in the UK without need for visa sponsorship (essential).

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 health insurance.