At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop innovative gene control systems for cell and gene therapy.
- Company: Concinnity Genetics is a cutting-edge biotech firm revolutionizing gene therapies with AI and synthetic biology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for growth, and a chance to shape the future of biotechnology.
- Why this job: Be part of a pioneering team making a real impact in gene therapy safety and effectiveness.
- Qualifications: PhD in molecular biology or related field, plus experience in lab settings and core techniques.
- Other info: Position available in Glasgow, starting March 2025; applications close January 10, 2025.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 36000 £ per year.
Role: Scientist / Senior Scientist – Molecular Biology
Location: Glasgow, UK
Start date: March 2025
Period: Full time, permanent
Closing Date for Applications: 10th January 2025
Compensation: £35,000-£45,000 p.a. depending on experience
About this job
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled molecular biologist to join our dynamic team, focused on leveraging our proprietary platform to develop novel gene control systems for the cell and gene therapy space. As one of the first hires in our growing company, you will have the unique opportunity to help expand and scale our technology platform and help us shape the future of gene therapies.
About Concinnity
Concinnity Genetics is a venture-backed biotechnology company that designs novel control mechanisms for the cell and gene therapy market using our innovative AI platform and synthetic biology expertise. Our platform enables the design, building and screening of large & complex libraries of RNA-based control systems, to allow the precise control of cell and gene therapies in response to a diverse range of molecules. By enabling precise control mechanisms, Concinnity’s unique RNA-based systems will transform the safety of cell and gene therapies.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform the key experimental work required to develop novel control systems using Concinnity’s proprietary platform
- Perform mammalian cell culture techniques such as transfection and maintenance of cell lines
- Perform molecular biology techniques including RNA/DNA extraction, cloning and plasmid preparation, PCR, reverse transcription, restriction digest and gel electrophoresis, and preparation of RNA/DNA samples for NGS analysis
- Optimise and carry out cell-based and other assays (e.g. fluorometric, luciferase, ELISA, qPCR)
- Working within a multidisciplinary team, execute experiments to a high standard and on schedule, to provide accurate data for seamless transition to subsequent project stages
- Demonstrate strong teamwork and a focus on achieving shared goals with a commitment to high-quality outcomes
- Additionally, for the senior scientist position:
- Assisting with the design of experiments, including helping to identify the most effective methodologies and develop protocols and assays
- Troubleshooting experiments and providing practical solutions to overcome technical challenges, ensuring project timelines are met
- Supervision and training of more junior members of staff
Skills
Essential
- Experience in core molecular biology techniques including design of plasmids and cloning strategies, molecular cloning, plasmid preparation and characterisation of nucleic acids by standard methods (e.g. gel electrophoresis, restriction digest, Sanger sequencing, etc.)
- Experience in mammalian cell culture techniques including transfection, cell counting, maintenance, splitting and freezing/thawing
- Experience performing analytical techniques such as fluorometric microplate assays, qPCR, and ELISA
- Enthusiasm to learn new approaches and concepts and to work alongside a computational biology team
- Ability to ensure consistent and reproducible work and maintain appropriate documentation
- Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team, with excellent communication, organisation and record-keeping skills
Desirable
- Demonstrated ability to develop, optimise and troubleshoot complex biological assays
- Strong understanding of mammalian gene regulation and molecular / cell biology
- At least two years’ experience working in an industrial / GxP regulated research laboratory setting
- Experience working with RNA samples
- Experience working with primary cells and in CL-2 environments
- Experience using electronic lab notebooks
- Ability to effectively relay information to both computational and experimental scientists
- Knowledge of experimental design principles for studies involving animal models
- IOSH or NEBOSH qualifications and the ability to take on certain H&S responsibilities is a bonus
Qualifications
- PhD (or equivalent professional experience) in molecular, cell or synthetic biology or other related field, with at least 2 additional years in a research laboratory setting desirable
Contact
Scientist / Senior Scientist – Molecular Biology employer: Concinnity Genetics
Contact Detail:
Concinnity Genetics Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist / Senior Scientist – Molecular Biology
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with core molecular biology techniques in your conversations. Discuss specific projects where you successfully applied techniques like plasmid design, cloning, and RNA/DNA extraction.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with Concinnity's proprietary platform and their approach to gene control systems. Being able to discuss how your skills align with their innovative AI platform will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your teamwork abilities. Share examples of how you've collaborated with multidisciplinary teams in the past, especially in high-pressure environments, to achieve shared goals.
✨Tip Number 4
If you're applying for the senior scientist position, be ready to discuss your experience in mentoring or training junior staff. Highlight any instances where you've successfully led projects or helped others troubleshoot complex experiments.
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist / Senior Scientist – Molecular Biology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in molecular biology techniques, mammalian cell culture, and any specific skills mentioned in the job description. Use keywords from the job listing to ensure your application stands out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention how your background aligns with Concinnity Genetics' mission and the innovative work they are doing in gene therapy.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your application, provide specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your expertise in molecular biology techniques and your ability to work within a multidisciplinary team. Highlight any experience you have with RNA samples or in GxP regulated environments.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a scientific role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Concinnity Genetics
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with core molecular biology techniques in detail. Highlight specific projects where you utilized plasmid design, cloning strategies, and analytical techniques like qPCR or ELISA. This will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and how it aligns with the role.
✨Emphasize Team Collaboration
Since this position requires working within a multidisciplinary team, share examples of past collaborations. Discuss how you contributed to shared goals and maintained high-quality outcomes, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively with both experimental and computational scientists.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to talk about challenges you've faced in the lab and how you overcame them. Whether it was troubleshooting an experiment or optimizing a protocol, illustrating your problem-solving skills will show that you can handle the technical challenges of the role.
✨Express Enthusiasm for Learning
Convey your eagerness to learn new approaches and concepts, especially in relation to the innovative AI platform used by Concinnity Genetics. This enthusiasm will reflect your commitment to personal and professional growth, which is essential in a rapidly evolving field like gene therapy.