At a Glance
- Tasks: Support innovative research in drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins.
- Company: Join Bind Research, a pioneering not-for-profit organisation in biochemistry.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days holiday, competitive salary, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in advancing science and technology in drug discovery.
- Qualifications: BSc in Biochemistry or related field; wet-lab experience preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic start-up culture with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
Type: Permanent (>4 years funding guaranteed)
Reporting to: Head of Protein and Drug Discovery
Bind Research is an innovative not-for-profit research organisation at the forefront of developing tools and datasets to characterise small-molecule interactions with intrinsically disordered proteins. Based just a short walk from Kings Cross station, Bind leverages interdisciplinary methods that span experimental biophysics – with a strong focus on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy – as well as computational approaches and cellular studies. You will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this cutting-edge research initiative from the beginning.
Join Bind Research and help push the limits of drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins. If you are dedicated to supporting the advancement of science and technology in an innovative environment, we encourage you to apply!
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our interdisciplinary team focused on drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). In this role, you will support innovative research programs within our biochemistry laboratory dedicated to the development of methods for screening and characterising molecular interactions of small molecules with disordered protein targets. Working closely with senior scientists, you will support general laboratory operations and contribute to the production of proteins used in downstream assays for compound screening and structural or biophysical analyses. This is a unique and exciting opportunity to be a part of a growing not-for-profit research organisation dedicated to making disordered proteins druggable and thereby unlocking new therapeutic avenues.
Key Responsibilities
- Reagent Preparation
- Prepare laboratory buffers and stock solutions
- Prepare culture media, including media for isotopically labelled expression of proteins
- Coordinate autoclaving of media and buffers with the building services
- Perform labelling of proteins and reagents, for example with fluorescent tags
- Laboratory operations
- Manage laboratory logistics, including coordinating deliveries, waste management and relationship with building management
- Maintain reagent stock levels, place orders, and ensure a smooth supply of reagent and consumables in the lab
- Assist with laboratory safety practices and surveillance
- Maintain up to date safety documentation
- Perform routine equipment maintenance including centrifuges, pH meter calibration, AKTA FPLC systems
- Coordinate the preparation and shipment of samples to external facilities and collaborators
- Produce and maintain plasmid DNA and competent cell stocks
- Undertake expression of recombinant proteins in E. coli
- Evaluate protein quality using analytical methods such as SDS-PAGE, UV-Vis spectroscopy and size-based measurements
- Purify proteins using established protocols including affinity, ion exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography on an AKTA FPLC
- Work closely with scientists and other team members to provide high quality samples and reagents for biochemical or biophysical assays
- Support the management of wet lab operations and contribute to continuous process improvements
- Maintain accurate and well-organised documentation of results, protocols, and reagent inventories
- Thrive in a dynamic, start-up-style environment where initiative and flexibility in your role are valued.
Qualifications and Expertise
We encourage applications from biochemists, biophysicists, and individuals with relevant transferable skills who are enthusiastic about our mission to make disordered proteins druggable, even if they do not meet every requirement listed below. We believe innovation thrives through diverse perspectives and welcome candidates from both academic and industry backgrounds.
Education and Experience
- BSc or equivalent experience in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field
- Hands‑on experience in a wet‑lab environment
- Experience in reagent and buffer preparation, and aseptic technique
- Experience with recombinant protein expression in E. coli
Skills and Abilities
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with team members in diverse fields
- Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail
- Familiarity with maintaining laboratory records, safety standards, and operational efficiency
Additional Attributes
- A collaborative mindset and an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary teamwork
- Dedication to continuous professional development in biochemical/biophysical methods relevant to intrinsically disordered proteins
- Passion for contributing to the establishment and growth of a world‑class not-for-profit research organisation
Nice to have
- Experience with protein purification and characterisation
- Experience of producing isotopically labelled samples for NMR studies
- Experience in coordinating laboratory deliveries and managing reagent inventories to support ongoing research operations
Our Culture
- Follow the science. We prioritise rigorous scientific inquiry, relying on evidence and expertise to guide decisions and actions, incorporating the latest research to achieve meaningful, ethical, and impactful outcomes for the public and scientific community.
- Think dynamically. We believe the most effective solutions come from a dynamic, adaptable mindset that embraces uncertainty as a catalyst for discovery, encouraging creativity, challenging assumptions, and approaching problems from multiple angles to foster innovation, navigate complexity, and deliver exceptional results.
- Celebrate a diverse ensemble. We celebrate diversity and inclusion, fostering a culture where all perspectives, backgrounds, and talents are valued, respected, and empowered to thrive, enabling us to better understand our community, collaborate effectively, and deliver impactful solutions.
- Build an innovation hub. We strive to advance disordered protein research by creating and sharing tools and datasets collaboratively, building on past contributions, and working alongside the disordered protein community to deepen understanding and maximise collective impact.
What We Offer
38 days holiday (inclusive of
Research Assistant, Biochemistry in London employer: Bind Research
Contact Detail:
Bind Research Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant, Biochemistry in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the biochemistry field on LinkedIn or at local meetups. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Bind Research and their work on intrinsically disordered proteins. Show us you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to our mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your lab skills! Brush up on techniques like protein purification and buffer preparation. Being hands-on will give you the confidence to impress us during practical assessments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant, Biochemistry in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience in biochemistry and any hands-on lab work you've done. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at Bind Research!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for drug discovery and intrinsically disordered proteins shine through in your application. Share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your dedication to advancing science and technology, as we love candidates who are genuinely excited about our work.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-organised applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our innovative team at Bind Research!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bind Research
✨Know Your Biochemistry Basics
Brush up on your biochemistry fundamentals, especially around protein interactions and drug discovery. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with techniques like SDS-PAGE or NMR spectroscopy, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This position thrives in a collaborative environment, so highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've worked effectively with others in a lab setting, and express your enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific challenges you've faced in the lab and how you overcame them. This could be anything from troubleshooting an experiment to managing reagent inventories. Show that you can think on your feet!
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the current projects at Bind Research or how they approach innovation in drug discovery. This shows your genuine interest in their work and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.