Senior Research Associate in Cambridge

We are seeking a motivated and technically skilled Senior Research Associate (SRA) to join our Technology Unit – the dedicated Research & Development function of FairJourney Biologics / IONTAS at our South Cambridgeshire site. The Technology Unit is responsible for developing, optimising, and advancing the antibody discovery platform capabilities that underpin our client‑facing discovery programmes.

As an SRA in the Technology Unit, you will work alongside senior scientists to improve and expand our antibody discovery toolbox, with a particular focus on single B cell screening, mammalian display, and phage display workflows. This is an independently executed, hands‑on laboratory role requiring a strong foundation in cell biology and molecular biology, with a can‑do mindset and appetite for scientific problem‑solving.

You will be expected to design and execute experiments with a good degree of independence, contribute to the development of robust protocols and SOPs, and communicate findings clearly to your team. Experience or familiarity with antibody discovery technologies is a significant advantage, though we welcome candidates with strong core laboratory skills who are eager to develop in this area. This is a fully on‑site, lab‑based role – ideal for scientists who thrive at the bench and enjoy contributing to cutting‑edge capability development in a collaborative, science‑driven environment.

• Execute laboratory experiments supporting the development and optimisation of antibody discovery technologies, including single B cell screening, mammalian display, and phage display workflows.
• Contribute to the evaluation and integration of novel tools, reagents, and methodologies into existing discovery platforms.
• Support the establishment and improvement of cell‑based and molecular biology workflows to enhance platform throughput, sensitivity, and reproducibility.
• Independently plan and execute experimental work to agreed timelines, with a high standard of reproducibility and accuracy.
• Accurately document all experimental work in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) in a timely manner.
• Contribute to the preparation and maintenance of SOPs and experimental protocols.
• Work closely with scientists across the Technology Unit and Discovery & Engineering teams to support shared development goals.
• Provide regular updates on experimental progress to project leads and the Technology Unit team.
• Contribute to training and mentoring of junior Research Associates where appropriate.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret experimental data to support technology development decision‑making.
• Present findings and progress clearly at internal team meetings and scientific reviews.

• MSc (or BSc with significant post‑graduation experience) in a life sciences discipline such as Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Minimum 2-3 years of hands‑on laboratory experience in a CRO, biotech, pharmaceutical, or academic research environment.
• Strong practical skills in mammalian cell culture (tissue culture), including experience working with cell lines; primary cell experience is advantageous.
• Solid molecular biology skills, including PCR (standard and qPCR), DNA cloning, gel electrophoresis, and nucleic acid purification.
• Experience with standard immunoassays such as ELISA for antibody or protein detection and quantification.
• Excellent attention to detail and a disciplined approach to scientific record‑keeping.
• Good organisational and time‑management skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present data and findings to the team.
• Collaborative and positive mindset, with a willingness to learn and contribute to a dynamic R&D team.

• Experience in an antibody discovery setting (phage display, mammalian display, single B cell, hybridoma, or similar).
• Familiarity with antibody molecular biology (e.g. VH/VL gene cloning, expression of antibody fragments).
• Hands‑on experience with flow cytometry and/or FACS‑based cell sorting.
• Knowledge of microfluidics‑based screening approaches.
• Experience with additional protein analysis methods (e.g. SDS‑PAGE, Western blot, BLI/SPR).

We Offer

• Be part of a dynamic, motivated team at our expanding Cambridge site.
• Contribute to projects that impact partners, patients and the broader scientific community.
• Attractive salary & life insurance.
• Generous parental leave policies.
• Located on Unity Campus, a growing science park offering good transport links, an on‑site gym with personal training, a cafe and a vibrant social community.

Deadline for applications: June 30th.