Research Associate - Molecular Validation: 6 months fixed term contract
Research Associate - Molecular Validation: 6 months fixed term contract

Research Associate - Molecular Validation: 6 months fixed term contract

Temporary 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
Enara Bio

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join us to conduct cutting-edge research in cancer immunotherapy and molecular validation.
  • Company: Enara Bio, a pioneering biotech firm based in Oxford, focused on innovative cancer treatments.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, health insurance, pension, and a collaborative work environment.
  • Other info: Empowering culture that values growth, courage, and collaboration.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while working with passionate scientists.
  • Qualifications: BSc in a relevant field and hands-on lab experience, especially in molecular biology.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.

Enara Bio’s purpose is to shine a light on unconventional T cell targets to develop cancer immunotherapies designed to provide lasting benefit for broad patient populations. Our proprietary EDAPT™ platform enables us to discover a novel and differentiated class of cancer‑specific targets from the genomic dark matter, which we call Dark Antigens™. We are pioneering approaches to exploit these Dark Antigen targets with a range of immunotherapeutic modalities, including bispecific T‑cell engagers, adoptive cell therapies and cancer vaccines. Enara Bio was founded in 2016 and has been well funded to invest in the build out and growth of our R&D efforts and our fantastic team. The company is based in Oxford, UK.

Role Overview

We are looking for a motivated Research Associate with a passion for immunotherapy to join our Molecular Validation function. This role requires technical expertise in Molecular Biology techniques and in‑vitro tissue culture operating in a Biosafety level 2 (BSL‑2) laboratory. The role will support a wide range of in‑vitro, mammalian cell‑based research activities across our Discovery and Non‑clinical pipelines. This is an opportunity for a dedicated scientist to contribute to the development of novel technology platforms and discover new therapies for cancers with significant unmet need.

Role Requirements

  • Perform RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis from mammalian cells and human tissue samples in accordance with SOP‑driven workflows.
  • Process and handle human biopsy samples, ensuring accurate documentation, sample integrity, and compliance with biosafety and ethical standards.
  • Maintain mammalian cell lines – including routine tissue culture, preparation of master cell banks, preparation of cells for biological assays and preparation of samples for tissue‑typing, monitoring infection (mycoplasma) and authentication (STR‑profiling).
  • Execute molecular cloning and bacterial transformation, including plasmid amplification and construct verification.
  • Following COSHH, biosafety, and laboratory quality practices, ensure compliance with all Environmental, Health and Safety company policies.
  • Maintain clear experimental records and sample traceability, supporting data integrity and enabling filing of patents, publications, and regulatory documents.
  • Work effectively within a cross‑functional laboratory team, supporting project timelines and shared experimental objectives.
  • Provide help/support with maintenance of laboratory stocks, deliveries and routine tasks.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience Required

  • BSc or equivalent workplace experience in a relevant scientific discipline.
  • Hands on experience in a biological laboratory environment ideally in the biotech/pharma industry.
  • Experience with molecular biology and cell culture aseptic techniques ideally in a BSL‑2 environment.

Further Information

The Enara Bio team is driven to make a meaningful difference for people affected by cancer. Our culture is defined by our behavioural ethos.

  • Empowerment: We promote autonomy across Enara rejecting conventional hierarchy. We engage each other through transparency, collaboration and trust. We each take action with a deep sense of personal and shared accountability.
  • Courage: We push boundaries in all that we do to deliver on our purpose. We make bold decisions, embrace risk and tackle challenges to advance our novel science. Courage is essential for everything we do.
  • Humility: We are proud of and excited by our novel science, but we acknowledge that we cannot know everything. Our curiosity drives us to continually learn from each other & the outside world irrespective of our role or title. We give and receive feedback with no room for ego.
  • Growth: We invest in our people, culture and community to foster belonging as a foundation for success. We embrace individual development to create deeper personal fulfilment and drive stronger collective impact.

Benefits

We offer a competitive salary, commensurate with qualifications and experience, and a benefits package including pension and health insurance.

Application Process

Applications close on Friday 15 May 2026. We review applications on a rolling basis and may schedule initial screening calls ahead of the closing date, so early applications are encouraged. In‑person interviews: Tuesday 19 May 2026. Due to the short‑term nature of this fixed‑term contract, we are unfortunately unable to offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the existing right to work in the UK for the duration of the contract. Enara Bio Limited is an equal opportunities employer.

Research Associate - Molecular Validation: 6 months fixed term contract employer: Enara Bio

Enara Bio is an exceptional employer located in Oxford, UK, dedicated to pioneering cancer immunotherapies that make a meaningful difference in patients' lives. Our vibrant work culture fosters empowerment, collaboration, and continuous learning, providing employees with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, we are committed to investing in our team as we strive to push the boundaries of science together.
Enara Bio

Contact Detail:

Enara Bio Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Molecular Validation: 6 months fixed term contract

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend relevant events, and connect with current employees at Enara Bio. A personal introduction can make all the difference when it comes to landing that interview.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your molecular biology knowledge and the latest trends in immunotherapy. Show us you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about what we do at Enara Bio!

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to teamwork and problem-solving. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to work collaboratively in a lab setting.

✨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 us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Enara Bio.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Molecular Validation: 6 months fixed term contract

Molecular Biology Techniques
In-vitro Tissue Culture
RNA Extraction
cDNA Synthesis
Sample Handling
Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) Compliance
Mammalian Cell Line Maintenance
Molecular Cloning
Bacterial Transformation
Plasmid Amplification
Laboratory Quality Practices
Experimental Record Keeping
Cross-functional Team Collaboration
Aseptic Techniques

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for immunotherapy shine through! We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and how it fits into our mission at Enara Bio.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in molecular biology and cell culture. We love seeing specific examples of your hands-on work, especially in a BSL-2 environment, so don’t hold back!

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to spot. Use bullet points if it helps!

Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We review applications on a rolling basis, so getting yours in early could give you an edge. Head over to our website to apply!

How to prepare for a job interview at Enara Bio

✨Know Your Molecular Biology

Brush up on your molecular biology techniques, especially RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience in a BSL-2 environment, as this will show your technical expertise and readiness for the role.

✨Show Your Passion for Immunotherapy

Enara Bio is all about developing cancer immunotherapies, so make sure to express your enthusiasm for this field. Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in cancer treatment.

✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration Skills

Since the role involves working within a cross-functional laboratory team, be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with others in past projects. Highlight your ability to support shared objectives and project timelines.

✨Emphasise Compliance and Safety Practices

Familiarise yourself with COSHH and biosafety regulations, as well as laboratory quality practices. During the interview, mention how you ensure compliance and maintain clear experimental records, which is crucial for data integrity and safety.

Research Associate - Molecular Validation: 6 months fixed term contract
Enara Bio

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