Molecular Research Scientist in Abingdon

As a Research Scientist for Flyttr, you will join a dynamic project dedicated to the research and development of our Friendly™ technology and leveraging this system into other novel insect species. This role is focused on conducting experiments to characterise aspects of the molecular biology and genetics of our species of interest. You will be running PCR and qPCR to determine specific targets within the target arthropod’s genome. You will be expected to perform the experimental work and make decisions upon the scientific technical details. This role is split across programs, which are at different stages of development, so will require adaptability, and would suit someone interested in changing and variable work‑flow.

Your duties will be focussed within specific species programs but, as with many roles within Flyttr, there is ample opportunity to advise or contribute to other streams of work within the molecular lab. You will be part of the Molecular Biology Lab Team who design, build and analyse the genetic circuits that power our Friendly™ insects. You will have strong experience in generating and interpreting data and will take a hands‑on approach to troubleshooting. You will have an ability to work independently, logically approaching technical challenges and gathering information to better inform decisions. You will have a self‑starting attitude, show strong organisational skills, and demonstrate original thinking and attention to detail. Excellent communication skills and an enthusiasm for Flyttr’s mission are essential.

Responsibilities

• Your key responsibilities will involve generating high‑quality DNA analysis data that engages with the ultimate aim of generating highly specific, robust detection methods employed in either the field or lab.
• Working under the guidance of the Molecular Biology Team Lead and other technical experts, you will:

• Design and run experiments independently, but in full alignment with program goals and SOPs and with the endorsement of your line manager and Program Lead;
• Ensure that processes, methods, and experiments are well designed and focused on efficiently delivering results and progress, measurable against the project goals;
• Carry out literature reviews to guide experimental testing: collect, analyse, and interpret data using accepted statistical methods;
• Provide clear communication regarding outcomes of processes, experiments, and planning with the Team Lead;
• Report data in meetings throughout the company, to audiences with various technical knowledge, and write clear and concise reports for internal review;
• Have a clear understanding of the commercial impact of the work and responsibilities and strive to optimise performance;
• Support the smooth running of the laboratory, maintaining tidiness, improving processes, and compliance to established procedures, regulations, and health and safety;
• Write internal study reports for review, presenting and communicating data;
• Write and update SOPs and risk assessments;
• Clean and organise work areas;
• Be available to provide occasional weekend support.

Skills, Experience, and Education Requirements

• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are essential;
• Demonstrated technical abilities appropriate for the role;
• An BSc, MSc (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline (e.g. molecular biology, biochemistry);
• PCR/qPCR experience is essential;
• Southern Blot experience is desirable;
• Experience in cloning methods is essential, with advanced techniques such as Gibson Assembly, restriction enzyme cloning and Golden-Gate as desirable;
• Protein work including Western blot experience is desirable;
• Track record of scientific diligence including valuing careful generation and recording of data, demonstrating good laboratory practices, including following SOPs.

Behavioural Requirements

• Committed to and passionate about the Flyttr mission and values;
• Diligent and organised, with a creative approach to problem solving and the development of applied solutions;
• Comfortable working independently and within a team;
• Adaptable and flexible, thriving and being resilient in an environment of change and ambiguity;
• Decisive and assertive with a driven and proactive approach;
• Positive, humble, co‑operative and professional;
• Works with a sense of urgency and solves things promptly;
• Empathetic, with the ability to build effective relationships quickly;
• A team player who believes the success of us all depends on us working together.

Please note that this is a fixed term position for 6 months. Flyttr is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.