At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal support, manage contracts, and ensure compliance across the business.
- Company: Join CN Bio, a pioneering life sciences company focused on innovative organ-on-a-chip solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, private healthcare, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the biotech field while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Paralegal with strong contract management and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
Location
Cambridge, UK / Hybrid
Functional Area
Corporate Services
Reports To
Chief Executive Officer
Contract Type
Permanent, 3 Days per Week (0.6 FTE)
Travel Required
- Minimal
- About CN Bio
CN Bio Innovations (CN Bio) is a modern life sciences company delivering human-focused research and discovery, enabled by a unique and proven Organ-on-a-Chip platform.
We work at the interface of engineering and cell biology to develop human biomimetic platforms for the testing and development of therapeutics for serious human diseases.
Our mission is to be the world's leading provider of organ-on-a-chip solutions which accurately predict human responses to medicines.
About The Role
CN Bio is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Senior Paralegal or Legal Executive to provide legal, governance and compliance support across the business.
Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful candidate will act as the primary internal legal support resource, supporting a broad range of commercial, corporate and operational activities.
The role will involve managing commercial contracts, supporting Board and corporate governance processes, coordinating intellectual property administration and acting as the principal liaison with external legal advisers.
This is a highly varied position offering exposure to commercial agreements, intellectual property, fundraising activities, strategic partnerships, employment-related matters and corporate governance.
The role is ideally suited to an individual who enjoys working independently, exercising sound judgement and balancing legal risk with commercial objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Commercial Contracts
- Draft, review and administer commercial agreements including non-disclosure agreements, consultancy agreements, supplier agreements, services agreements and strategic partnership contracts.
- Support contract negotiations and coordinate review processes with internal stakeholders and external advisers.
- Maintain and improve standard contract templates.
- Manage contract execution, filing and document retention processes.
- Monitor key contractual obligations, renewal dates, notice periods and commercial commitments.
- Corporate Governance
- Support Board and shareholder administrative activities.
- Maintain statutory records and corporate governance documentation.
- Coordinate Companies House filings and corporate compliance requirements.
- Ensure governance records are maintained accurately and in accordance with legal obligations.
- Support the administration of patents, trademarks and other intellectual property assets.
- Coordinate interactions with external patent attorneys.
- Track filing deadlines, renewals and associated documentation.
- Maintain internal records relating to intellectual property activities.
- Compliance and Risk Management
- Assist with compliance activities relating to confidentiality, data protection and information governance.
- Support policy development and review activities.
- Conduct legal and regulatory research as required.
- Identify potential contractual and operational risks and elevate appropriately.
- Strategic and Corporate Support
- Support legal aspects of fundraising, strategic partnerships, due diligence activities and corporate projects.
- Assist with employment-related legal documentation and administration.
- Prepare briefing materials for external legal advisers to improve efficiency and cost management.
- Provide practical legal and commercial support to management and functional teams.
- General Responsibilities
- Maintain effective legal administration processes across the business.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that reduce legal and compliance risk.
- Support the delivery of business objectives through pragmatic and commercially focused legal support.
- Undertake other duties consistent with the needs of the business.
About You
Essential Experience and Skills
- Proven experience working as a Paralegal, Senior Paralegal or Legal Executive.
- Strong experience reviewing and administering commercial contracts.
- Excellent written communication and document drafting skills.
- Strong organisational and project management skills.
- Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
- Experience managing multiple priorities and delivering to deadlines.
- Strong stakeholder management and interpersonal skills.
- Commercially pragmatic approach and sound judgement.
- Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and legal document management systems.
Desirable Experience and Skills
- Experience working within biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, life sciences or technology sectors.
- Experience supporting intellectual property administration.
- Familiarity with UK company law and corporate governance requirements.
- Experience supporting Board processes and Companies House filings.
- Knowledge of data protection and compliance requirements.
- Personal Attributes
- Highly organised and detail-oriented.
- Trustworthy and professional.
- Comfortable working independently with limited supervision.
- Pragmatic and solutions-focused.
- Collaborative and approachable.
- Able to balance legal risk with commercial realities.
- Strong sense of ownership and accountability.
- What Success Looks Like
Within the role, the successful candidate will
- Become the trusted internal owner of day-to-day legal administration and governance activities.
- Reduce reliance on external counsel for routine legal matters.
- Ensure commercial contracts are managed efficiently and consistently.
- Maintain robust governance, compliance and intellectual property records.
- Enable business growth by providing practical and commercially focused legal support.
- The Benefits
- Pension with Standard Life
- Private Healthcare with AXA
- Cashback for Dental and Optical Care
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Flexible working hours to support work-life balance
- Office snacks and refreshments
What's Next?
We will review your application and whilst we would love to get back to every applicant, it is not always possible.
If you haven't heard from us within 3/4 weeks, please note that your application has not been successful on this occasion.
We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to creating an inclusive working environment.
Please note applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK for the duration of the role in accordance with UK immigration legislation.
We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.
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Senior Paralegal in Cambridge employer: CN Bio
At CN Bio Innovations, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Cambridge. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our flexible working arrangements and comprehensive benefits, including private healthcare and a supportive Employee Assistance Programme. Join us to be part of a collaborative culture that values innovation and empowers you to make a meaningful impact in the life sciences sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Paralegal in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
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Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including CN Bio, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Paralegal in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at CN Bio, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in CN Bio and the specific role of Senior Paralegal. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for CN Bio’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at CN Bio
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at CN Bio.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at CN Bio.
