Sample Technology Scientist (RNA/cDNA)

Oxford Nanopore Technologies is headquartered at the Oxford Science Park outside Oxford, UK, with satellite offices and a commercial presence in many global locations across the US, APAC and Europe. We are looking for a Sample Technologies Scientist to join our RNA/cDNA Sample Technologies team. This role is full-time, lab-based and involves the research and development of Oxford Nanopore's sequencing kits with the aim of improving the performance of our RNA/cDNA sequencing performance, platforms, and end-to-end workflows for biopharma-related applications using our innovative technologies.

The Details... Reporting to the Director of the RNA/cDNA Sample Technology division, the successful candidate will undertake a role that involves experimental design, offline assays, library preparation and RNA/cDNA sequencing to develop and deliver sample preparation kits and protocols, and to provide data and feedback to bioinformatic teams to aid design of end-to-end workflows. The role will require good interpersonal skills and effective communication of findings to relevant collaborators.

Duties of the role include (but are not limited to):

• Experimental design and implementation of testing improvements for RNA/cDNA sequencing protocols and kits, including techniques for direct RNA and cDNA sequencing methodologies.
• Development and maintenance of specific assays and protocols, including RNA/cDNA sequencing sample prep; transcriptome sequencing; multiplexing; sequence capture/enrichment; modified base detection.
• Extract and/or prepare nucleic acid for RNA and/or DNA sequencing, including crafting and generating synthetic oligonucleotides and/or transcripts.
• Generating sequencing data for downstream bioinformatic analysis.
• Collaborating closely with bioinformatics/software development teams to provide required sequencing data to a defined experimental design.
• Share experimental findings with key partners and collaborators: this may include crafting protocols for publication.
• Generate and curate QC data and sequencing data to support sample prep methodologies as they are developed and investigated.
• Working with relevant stakeholders to deliver methodologies congruent with Q-line and regulatory GMP practices.

What We're Looking For... We will expect you to have an undergraduate and postgraduate (MSc/PhD) degree in a molecular biology/biotechnology-based field, or several years of related proven experience in an RNA-related field. You will have a background with a successful lab-based academic research project or relevant lab-based work experience, and an understanding of next-generation sequencing.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Broad understanding of nucleic acid structure and function, with experience working with RNA constructs and manipulation of RNA molecules.
• Some data analysis/stats skills.
• Knowledge of molecular biology lab procedures such as gel electrophoresis, PCR qPCR, oligonucleotide shearing, RNA/DNA quantification, etc.
• Ability to perform basic lab calculations such as molarity calculations.
• Organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.

This role will suit someone enthusiastic with an RNA background and strong problem-solving and communication skills, who works well with multi-disciplinary teams and can also work independently. If you are looking to utilise your skills to really make a difference to humankind, then consider joining our team and apply today!

Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person's gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job.