Scientist I/II / Senior Scientist - Platform in Oxford

We are looking for a motivated Molecular Biologist to join a fast-paced team supporting drug discovery and therapeutic development. This is a hands-on laboratory role focused on assay development, high-throughput screening, and generation of high-quality data. This role will initially be a 6-month FTC with potential to transition to a permanent role. Ideally, candidates will be able to start a new role within the next six weeks.

What you'll do

• Perform high quality cell-based assay to screen molecules for assessing efficacy and potency to support SAR for molecules and therapeutic candidates.
• Routinely optimise, develop, and perform various molecular biology techniques including DNA and RNA extraction, primer and vector design, PCR, PCR purification, qPCR, cell-based and cell-free reporter assays, protein quantification, and library preparation for Sanger and NGS.
• Process tissues from in vivo studies and perform downstream assays including quantification, NGS analyses, and immunohistochemistry.
• Develop assays and processes for streamlining screening and sample processing.
• Produce reproducible data and make decisions based on statistical analysis.
• Critically analyse and record efficacy data.
• Effectively manage project timelines to advance group and company goals.
• Keep up with the latest advancements in the field and provide recommendations on bringing in emerging assays that can be valuable to the company.
• Prepare data reports, technical reports, presentations, and publications.

What we're looking for

• MSc., or Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or a related field with relevant industry experience in a CRO or drug discovery setting.
• Strong record of tissue culture work, including cell transfection of molecules and downstream assays. Experience in working with nucleic acid therapeutics is a plus.
• Hands on experience in standard molecular biology laboratory techniques including DNA and RNA extraction, primer and vector design, PCR, qPCR, and reporter assays. Experience with sample or library preparation for Sanger or Next Generation Sequencing a plus.
• Ability to develop, troubleshoot, and improve assays.
• Experience of familiarity with immunoassays such as ELISA, Western Blotting, Automated Westerns (Wes/Jess), and/or immunohistochemistry.
• Experience working with assays in plate-based format (96-well or higher throughput) including ability to use liquid handling to streamline protocols.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically, analyse data, record outcomes, and make decisions based on statistical analysis.
• Attention to detail and ability to generate high quality reproducible data.
• Demonstrated ability to multitask, prioritise, manage multiple projects, adhere to project timelines, and meet project deadlines.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, and an ability to work on cross-functional projects with external stakeholders and partners.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced and high-performing small team environment.