Research Associate Screening/Discovery (12 month Maternity Cover)

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.

Overview of role

At Constructive Bio we are reimagining the chemistry of biology with applications in medicine and agriculture. We are fast growing and now have the perfect opportunity for a research associate/technician to join our Engineered Translation team. We are looking to recruit a Research Associate on a 12 month maternity cover contract. In this role you will be involved in our routine tRNA display pipeline discovery process dictated by external/internal project needs. Your primary focus will be to perform aminoacyl‑tRNA synthetase/tRNA molecule selection experiments for the discovery of novel means to genetically encode non‑canonical building blocks for industrial applications. Secondly, you will be involved in our ongoing display process optimisation efforts. As part of your professional development, you will discuss and perform experiments to improve our discovery pipeline.

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

• A background in protein engineering and sequence screening with a proven track record of participating in industrial biotechnology pipeline‑based projects.
• BSc/MSc in Biological Sciences or closely related field with demonstrable passion for lab‑based experimentation.
• Demonstrable hands‑on experience with a variety of molecular biology and microbiology techniques including DNA isolation, quality control and sequencing, RNA isolation and handling, excellent aseptic technique, strain archiving, and the ability to execute protocols meticulously.
• Clear and concise communication and presentation skills.
• Previous industrial biotechnology pipeline‑based project experience.
• Protein engineering mutagenesis library design.
• Familiarity with PyMol or similar molecular visualisation software.
• Real‑time PCR.
• Performing bacterial plate‑based reporter expression assays.
• Illumina sequencing library preparation.
• Experience in genetic code expansion related projects and familiarity with recent and relevant peer‑reviewed article outputs.

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.
• Employee share option plan.
• 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 take action and grow together as one to break moulds.
• We take ownership: We 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.