At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead biomarker strategy and assay development for innovative gene editing programmes.
- Company: Join a pioneering biotech firm focused on genetic medicine.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentorship opportunities, and a vibrant office culture.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with strong focus on collaboration and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research and development.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and 8+ years of industry experience required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
About the Role: The Associate Director, Biomarker and Assay Development will report to the Senior Director, Translational Research, and will lead biomarker strategy, assay development, fit-for-purpose assay qualification and validation, bioanalytical sample analysis oversight, and regulatory readiness across in vivo gene editing programs. Please note that this is primarily an office-based leadership role with close engagement with laboratory and external partner activities. This is not a remote position, and on-site presence is required in our Cambridge office, typically 4–5 days per week.
What You Can Expect:
- Serve as the Biomarker & Assay Development lead on cross-functional program teams
- Develop and execute biomarker and bioanalytical assay strategies to support in vivo gene editing programs from discovery through IND-enabling studies
- Design, oversee, and interpret translational and preclinical studies, including studies evaluating editing activity, target engagement and pharmacodynamic response, biodistribution, safety biomarkers, and disease-relevant endpoints
- Lead assay development, vendor selection, qualification, validation, transfer, and troubleshooting, working closely with internal teams and external CROs/vendors
- Select, manage, and oversee CROs to ensure high-quality, timely delivery of study results and assay data
- Integrate biomarker and assay data into program decision-making and regulatory documentation
- Collaborate with clinical team to coordinate management of study samples, timing and cadence of bioanalytical sample analysis, QC of assay runs, data analysis and presentation of data
- Manage, mentor, and develop a team of 3–4 research associates
What You Bring:
- PhD or equivalent experience in biology, pharmacology, molecular biology, bioengineering, or a related field
- 8+ years of relevant industry experience in biomarker development, bioanalytical assay development, translational research, or preclinical development
- Deep expertise in bioanalytical assay methods, development, qualification, and validation, ideally in support of genetic medicine, AAV, RNA, or gene editing programs
- Experience with relevant assay platforms and readouts such as qPCR/ddPCR, ELISA/MSD, flow cytometry, NGS, biodistribution, editing efficiency, immunogenicity, RNA/protein biomarkers, or other molecular/cellular assays
- Experience supporting IND-enabling studies, GLP toxicology studies, and regulatory documentation
- Strong ability to synthesize complex biomarker and assay data into clear recommendations for program teams and leadership
- Strong understanding of regulatory expectations for bioanalytical assays, translational biomarkers, and preclinical study packages
- Experience managing CROs/vendors and ensuring quality, timelines, and scientific rigor
- Prior experience with AAV or other genetic medicine delivery platforms required; gene editing experience strongly preferred
- Demonstrated experience managing and mentoring research associates and/or junior scientists
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, matrixed team environment
- Excellent planning, organization, communication, and interpersonal skills
Our Values: Our values govern the work we do at Arbor, and we’re hoping that they resonate as strongly with you as they do with us!
- Purposeful Action: Driven by outcomes, guided by purpose
- Bold Resilience: Speak boldly, embrace change, grow forward
- Humble Authenticity: Be real, value the uniqueness of others, elevate all
The anticipated salary range for candidates for this role will be $XX - $XX. The final salary offered will depend on several factors, which may include, but is not limited to relevant years of experience, educational background, industry knowledge, technical skills, and other factors that may prove relevant during the interview process.
We promote diversity and inclusion not just in our recruitment processes, but in everything we do. We’re an equal opportunity employer and we will continue to ensure our recruitment process is free of bias and our workplace is inclusive, positive, and free of discrimination and respecting of all backgrounds and beliefs.
Associate Director, Biomarker & Assay Development in Cambridge employer: ARBOR
As a remote Senior Product Engineer at our market-leading nature tech company, you'll be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to making nature measurable and actionable. We foster a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional growth, offering flexible arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package, all while empowering you to contribute to meaningful environmental change. Join us in shaping the future of biodiversity monitoring and enjoy the unique advantage of working with passionate individuals who share your commitment to sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, Biomarker & Assay Development in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like ARBOR. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like ARBOR!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, Biomarker & Assay Development in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show ARBOR that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at ARBOR.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that ARBOR does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at ARBOR
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at ARBOR. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into ARBOR's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at ARBOR. This shows your passion for the industry!
