At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Molecular Sciences Group to drive innovative drug discovery and support exciting projects.
- Company: Astex Pharmaceuticals, a leader in drug discovery with a focus on Neurological Disorders and Oncology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with opportunities for career growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug development while working with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. in protein science with experience in recombinant protein expression and chromatographic techniques.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Astex Pharmaceuticals is a world leader in innovative drug discovery and development. The company has successfully applied its proprietary Fragment-Based Drug Discovery platform to generate multiple new drug candidates that are progressing in clinical development. Successful collaborations have led to three launched oncology drugs (Kisqali® partnered with Novartis, Balversa® partnered with Janssen and Truqap™ partnered with AstraZeneca). Astex continues to grow and focuses on Neurological Disorders and Oncology.
The Role
We are looking for a talented and self-motivated scientist with strong expertise in protein science to join the Astex’s Molecular Sciences Group. The Molecular Sciences Group is responsible for supporting all activities from ‘gene to structure’ and for prosecuting Pyramid TM, Astex’s fragment-based screening platform. The role is laboratory based and the successful candidate will be engaged in enabling targets for Pyramid TM and supporting projects during all phases of the drug discovery process. The Molecular Sciences Group has well equipped protein science laboratories including eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell culture and harvesting facilities, a large fleet of dedicated chromatographic purification systems (AKTAs) and high throughput expression testing and protein purification capabilities. Please note, that this role is a two-year fixed-term contract.
Qualifications:
- Ph.D. with post-doctoral, or equivalent experience
- Experience in recombinant protein expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems
- Proficiency in chromatographic techniques (e.g. affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion)
- Expertise in characterisation of proteins to ensure suitability for structural studies and other biophysical methods
- A proven track record of generating integral membrane proteins or multi-protein complexes for structural and biophysical studies
- Excellent communication and team working skills
Desirable, but non-essential skills & experience:
- Experience working with alternative membrane mimetics, such as nanodiscs, amphipols and liposomes
- Proven practical expertise with at least one of the following techniques: cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, NMR, SPR, ITC, MS or TSA/DSF
- Experience with AI and ML construct design and high-throughput protein expression
- Familiarity with FBDD and SBDD
Why Astex
We offer excellent training and career development opportunities as well as highly competitive salary and benefits package including hybrid working options to promote a flexible and inclusive work environment. At Astex we embrace diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse Company representing all backgrounds, harnessing industry-leading scientific innovation and behaviours. Astex is situated 2.5 miles from Cambridge City centre on the Cambridge Science Park. The Park has onsite sports facilities and excellent transport links to London.
Protein Scientist in Cambridge employer: Astex Pharmaceuticals
Astex Pharmaceuticals is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Cambridge, UK, where innovation thrives. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that encourages professional growth through cross-border partnerships and access to extensive datasets, while also contributing to impactful research publications. With a focus on cutting-edge technology and AI methods, this role provides a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of scientific advancement in cryo-EM analysis.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Protein Scientist in Cambridge
✨Join Biotechnology Meetups
Get yourself into the loop by joining local biotech meetups or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections with professionals in the field and can often lead to temporary gigs through word-of-mouth. Plus, you'll get to hear about the latest trends and developments directly from the source.
✨Showcase Your Passion in Science
Consider starting a blog or social media channel to showcase your interest in biotechnology. Share the latest research, your insights, and even your projects. This will not only enhance your visibility in the community but also attract potential employers like Astex Pharmaceuticals who might be scrolling through for talent.
✨Tap into University Resources
If you’re still in school or recently graduated, don’t forget to use your university’s career services. They often have exclusive connections with companies looking for temporary staff. Reach out to them for internship listings and networking opportunities tailored to the biotech sector.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you spot that perfect temporary role at Astex Pharmaceuticals, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, you’ll be in the best position to get noticed quickly and can show your enthusiasm for the role while filling out the application.
We think you need these skills to ace Protein Scientist in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Relevant Lab Skills:In the biotech world, your lab skills are paramount. Make sure your CV highlights specific techniques and equipment you’ve used, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, or cell culture. This will give us a clear picture of what you can bring to Astex Pharmaceuticals as a temporary teammate.
Highlight Your Research Experience:If you’ve worked on any research projects — whether during your studies or in previous positions — make sure to detail these in your application. Include the objective, your role, and what you achieved. This will help us see your potential and fit for the temporary position at Astex Pharmaceuticals.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Especially for a temporary role, we want to see a clear and focused application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasise the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the biotech field and the specific role at Astex Pharmaceuticals. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and capable.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it’s a temporary role, let us know right away when you’re available to start and how long you can commit. Include this in your cover letter — this kind of transparency saves us all time and helps us find the right fit quickly at Astex Pharmaceuticals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Astex Pharmaceuticals
✨Brush Up on Your Biotech Basics
Understanding the fundamental concepts in biotechnology is crucial. Be ready to discuss core topics like genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, especially if you're asked technical questions. We suggest revisiting your coursework or recent projects to refresh your memory.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, they’re likely looking for someone who can jump in and get up to speed quickly. Share experiences where you’ve adapted to new environments, tools, or teams in a short space of time. It shows you're ready to tackle the challenge head-on!
✨Emphasise Your Lab Experience
If you’ve got hands-on experience in lab settings, now’s the time to showcase it. Talk about specific techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, and any relevant safety protocols you’ve followed. These details help paint you as an effective team member from day one.
✨Be Prepared to Explain Your Passion
Hiring managers want to see your motivation, especially for a temporary position in a fast-paced field like biotechnology. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the industry, your career goals, and how this role at Astex Pharmaceuticals aligns with them. It’s all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a stepping stone in your biotech journey.
