Research Assistant, Production New Cambridge, UK

bit.bio is an award-winning spinout from the University of Cambridge. Our breakthrough technology combines synthetic and stem cell biology for the precise, efficient and consistent reprogramming of human cells used in research, drug discovery, and cell therapy. At bit.bio, we are passionate about engineering human cells that will enable the medicine of the future. To do this we need talented and curious people who want to make an impact on the future of science and therapeutics. As a team of individuals, we value science, collaboration, openness, curiosity and creativity. We are united by trust and respect for each other.

Location: Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge

Type: Full time, permanent / Start: Immediate

This role does not meet the minimum salary requirements for UK skilled worker sponsorship. Candidates must already have the right to work in the UK or must not require sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa.

Your role in our team

We are seeking a team-focused Research Assistant to join our Production team, playing a key role in manufacturing our ioProduct catalogue, delivering high quality cells to our customers. In this role, you will contribute to the manufacture of a diverse range of iPSC-derived products, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality and consistency. You will play an integral part in executing manufacturing requests to fulfil commercial forecasts, maintaining sufficient stock levels to meet customer demands.

Working closely with the Product & Process Development (PPD) and Quality Control (QC) teams, you will support the effective management of the product lifecycle, ensuring smooth transitions from development to production and maintaining product quality over time. Your efforts will help drive the consistent delivery of high-quality products to meet business and customer needs.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Cell Manufacturing
  • Execute production protocols for various ioCell type products, adhering rigorously to the highest standards of laboratory technique.
  • Accurately implement and meticulously document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for critical processes, including cell maintenance, induction, cryopreservation, and the establishment of quality criteria for ioCell line generation.
  • Conduct experiments to generate data on manufacturing consistency, contributing to the support of the overall product portfolio.
• Process Improvement
  • Provide support for the validation of production SOPs across diverse formats to facilitate the expansion of our manufacturing capabilities.
  • Assist in the transfer of new SOPs into the production team during the technology transfer process.
  • Proactively cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and contribute to systems to uphold high standards and good practice, actively identifying opportunities for operational enhancement.
• Collaboration and Documentation
  • Collate experimental data for review by the broader team and present these findings within smaller forums.
  • Collaborate effectively with team members and other departments to achieve project objectives, ensuring proactive communication for an effective, goal-focused team dynamic.
  • Maintain a clean and organised laboratory environment, providing support for cleaning and general laboratory maintenance as required.
  • Adhere to good documentation practice and keep accurate records of work using appropriate ELNs.

Hold a minimum Bachelor’s degree qualification (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field of Biological Science.

With essential experience in:

• Proven experience in a process development role within the Life Sciences industry.
• Process oriented and experienced in developing, optimising & implementing workflows, protocols, procedures and resources in a quality management environment.
• Experience with human induced pluripotent stem cell biology, characterisation and culture systems.
• Experience in process tech transfer.
• Excellent time management, organisation and communication skills.

...and possibly:

• Experienced in developing, optimising & implementing workflows, protocols, procedures and resources in a quality management environment.
• Cell phenotyping and functional end point analysis e.g. flow cytometry, qPCR, ICC, MEA analysis.
• Expertise in continuous improvement and its implementation (e.g. LEAN, 5S) and experience of working to a quality management system.
• Experience in automation and bioreactor operation.
• Experience of working in a regulated environment to GLP, GMP or similar.

More reasons to join us:

bit.bio provides a vibrant and dynamic work environment in an exciting, fast-moving time for biology. We work with cutting edge technologies and with our world-leading scientific advisory board. We conduct pioneering work with real-world impact. We trust our people to make significant contributions early on with opportunities to be involved in projects that are key to the success and growth of our young company. We invest in people, creating opportunities for personal development in an inclusive multi-skilled team with ambitious goals that provide opportunities to learn on the job from each other. Creativity and open minds are encouraged for everyone to contribute to the success of the company.

Is this role right for you? If you are interested in building your career at bit.bio, consider applying and joining our team.