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- Tasks: Support tRNA display pipeline and conduct selection experiments for novel building blocks.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge biotech startup transforming living cells into sustainable solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee share options, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biotechnology and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
- Qualifications: BSc/MSc in Biological Sciences with hands-on molecular biology experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Company Overview
Constructive Bio is a VC‑backed biotechnology startup based in Whittlesford, Cambridge. Our unique technology turns living cells into biofactories, creating sustainable new materials and therapeutics. We are exploring chemical space previously unreached by natural biology.
Overview of role
Research Associate/Technician – 12 month maternity cover contract in the Engineered Translation team. You will support our routine tRNA display pipeline and participate in aminoacyl‑tRNA selection experiments and pipeline optimization.
Responsibilities
- Perform aminoacyl‑tRNA synthetase/tRNA molecule selection experiments for the discovery of novel, non‑canonical building blocks.
- Optimize the display process and contribute to the discovery pipeline.
- Discuss and execute experiments to improve the pipeline.
Qualifications
- BSc/MSc in Biological Sciences or related field.
- Hands‑on experience with molecular biology and microbiology techniques: DNA isolation, PCR & qPCR, Gibson assembly, Golden Gate, restriction digestion, RNA isolation, aseptic technique, strain archiving.
- Ability to execute protocols meticulously.
- Clear communication and presentation skills.
- Excellent record keeping.
Desirable Skills
- Industrial biotechnology pipeline experience.
- Protein engineering mutagenesis library design.
- Familiarity with PyMol or similar visualisation software.
- Real‑time PCR.
- Bacterial plate‑based reporter expression assays.
- Illumina sequencing library preparation.
- Experience with genetic code expansion projects and current literature.
Benefits
Newly fitted dedicated site in Whittlesford with on‑site parking and regular trains to Cambridge, London and Norwich. Competitive salary. Employee share option plan. 25 days holiday plus.
Research Associate Screening/Discovery (12 month Maternity Cover) in Cambridge employer: Constructive Bio
Contact Detail:
Constructive Bio Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate Screening/Discovery (12 month Maternity Cover) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the biotech field, especially those who work at Constructive Bio or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interviews by brushing up on your technical skills. Make sure you can talk confidently about molecular biology techniques and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in past experiments or projects. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to our discovery pipeline effectively.
✨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, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Constructive Bio.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate Screening/Discovery (12 month Maternity Cover) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Associate. Highlight your hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about biotechnology and how your background makes you a great fit for our Engineered Translation team. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Clear communication is key in our field. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey complex ideas simply. Whether it's in your CV or cover letter, we want to see that you can present your thoughts clearly.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Constructive Bio!
How to prepare for a job interview at Constructive Bio
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on your molecular biology and microbiology techniques. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with DNA isolation, PCR, and other relevant methods. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can also execute protocols meticulously.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've optimised processes or solved problems in previous roles. Constructive Bio is looking for someone who can contribute to the discovery pipeline, so demonstrating your ability to think critically and improve workflows will set you apart.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex scientific concepts in simple terms. Clear communication is key, especially when discussing experiments and results. You might even want to prepare a brief presentation on a past project to showcase your presentation skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Technology
Do some research on Constructive Bio's unique technology and their approach to creating sustainable materials. Being knowledgeable about their work will not only impress them but also help you ask insightful questions during the interview.