Research Technicians in Cambridge

Who we are: Life, Reimagined. 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. With full control of the genetic sequence and code, we are exploring chemical space previously unreached by natural biology.

Constructive Bio is a spinout from Professor Jason Chin's laboratory at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge. We secured $58 million Series A fundraising.

What we’re looking for:

We’re looking for 2x proactive and detail-oriented Research Technicians to join our R&D team, with opportunities spanning both engineered translation and synthetic genomics. You’ll be supporting DNA construct design, genome engineering, and a range of experimental workflows in a fast-paced lab environment. This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience across molecular cloning, strain engineering, and assay development, while building a strong foundation in modern molecular biology techniques.

Responsibilities:

• Generation of novel DNA constructs, from individual plasmids to plasmid libraries. This includes molecular cloning through Gibson assembly, GoldenGate assembly, or restriction cloning.
• DNA and RNA extraction and sequencing, internally or through external contractors.
• Generation of genome-engineered E. coli strains, both through traditional recombination techniques and through Constructive's proprietary technologies for large-scale genome engineering.
• Carry out molecular biology assays for characterising engineered bacterial strains, including measurements of protein expression through fluorometry and other proprietary assays that measure the function of engineered proteins in cells.
• Preparation and quality control of competent E. coli cells to support the team's R&D activities.
• Create and manage glycerol stocks from bacterial cultures, with accurate documentation.
• Capture experimental data clearly and rigorously in electronic lab notebooks and LIMS.
• Carry out experimental work in adherence with standard operating procedures, and in compliance with health and safety measures in place.
• Collaborate with the broader research team, attending and positively contributing to the relevant project meetings.

Requirements:

• BSc in relevant scientific discipline (Biology/ Biochemistry/ Bioengineering/ Cell Biology etc.).
• Demonstrable experience of working in a molecular biology laboratory.
• Familiarity with common molecular biology and DNA cloning techniques.
• Familiarity with aseptic bacterial cell culture techniques.
• Strong work ethic and keen interest in building a positive and collaborative team culture.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively.
• Attention to detail, organizational skills, and desire to work in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable skills:

• Familiarity with DNA sequencing methodologies and DNA sequence analysis, including Sanger sequencing and next-generation DNA sequencing technologies (Illumina, Nanopore, PacBio).
• Experience in DNA construct and plasmid design.
• Experience with liquid handling equipment and other automated molecular biology workflows.

What’s in it for you? Why work at Constructive Bio?

We are a small but rapidly growing team, with a vision to become the programmable biomolecules company and push the boundaries of what’s possible between biology and chemistry. As an early joiner, you will have a unique opportunity to help shape our trajectory and make real impact from day one.

We offer:

• Newly fitted dedicated site in Whittlesford near Cambridge – on-site parking and regular trains to Cambridge, London and Norwich.
• Competitive salary.
• Employee share option plan.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Private health insurance.
• Pension plan (matching up to 8%).
• Collaborative and pioneering environment, at the leading edge of synthetic genomics and engineered translation.

We want to build a team with trust and respect for each other and create a culture of collaboration, openness, curiosity, and scientific excellence.

We are built on three principles:

• We imagine: We think big and plan our own path for success.
• We pioneer: We take action and grow together as one to break moulds.
• We deliver: We take ownership and work together to deliver excellence.

Constructive Bio is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Please note that we work in a dog-friendly office.