At a Glance
- Tasks: Engineer enzymes using AI-powered technology and collaborate on innovative projects.
- Company: Join Imperagen, a cutting-edge AI enzyme engineering company in Manchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity options, and a chance to work on groundbreaking science.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a team shaping the future of biocatalysis with real-world impact.
- Qualifications: PhD in chemistry or biochemistry, with experience in enzyme assays and analytical techniques.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About Imperagen
Imperagen is building an AI-powered enzyme engineering company focused on biocatalysis. Our ambition is to create a proprietary AI platform that connects computational design, experimental validation, and real-world commercial outcomes in a system that gets smarter over time. We believe the future of biocatalysis will be shaped by autonomous closed-loop experimentation, where AI, software, and lab workflows work together to accelerate discovery, improve decision quality, and compound learning across programs.
The Role
We are hiring a biocatalysis and analytical development expert to join our team in Manchester. You will work closely within our multidisciplinary team delivering enzyme engineering programs and contributing to the development of our closed-loop enzyme technology platform.
Responsibilities
- This is a laboratory-based role, where the primary task will be to use Imperagen’s closed-loop platform to engineer enzymes in commercial programs.
- You will have responsibility for maintaining the analytical equipment (HPLC, UPLC and LC-MS).
- Knowledge of biocatalysis and enzyme chemistry is also highly desirable.
- Establish and optimise analytical and screening methods using UV/Vis, fluorescence, HPLC, and MS.
- Provide expertise in analytical methodologies and techniques to the team, especially relative to high throughput assay development and maintenance of the equipment.
- Provide expertise in biocatalysis and biotransformations reactions to the team.
- Design and perform molecular biology experiments including PCR and site-directed mutagenesis.
- Express recombinant proteins (e.g. in E. coli) and carry out purification protocols.
- Develop and run enzyme screening and characterisation assays.
- Analyse, document, and communicate experimental data.
- Collaborate with computational scientists to integrate experimental and in silico workflows.
- Contribute to development of automated and scalable laboratory systems and processes.
Required Experience and Qualifications
- PhD in chemistry, biochemistry or a related field.
- Experience with enzyme assays and analytical techniques (HPLC, UPLC, LC-MS, GC preferred).
- Deep understanding of biocatalysis and biotransformation reaction chemistry.
- Strong understanding of enzyme engineering and directed evolution.
- Experience with microbial culture and recombinant protein expression.
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills.
Preferred Experience
- Postdoctoral or industry experience in enzyme engineering.
- Knowledge of enzyme mechanisms, kinetics, or structural biology.
- Experience with lab automation or high-throughput workflows.
- Familiarity with computational biology tools or data systems.
Eligibility to work in the UK
- Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK.
- Please note that Imperagen is not able to provide visa or work permit sponsorship for this role.
Compensation
Imperagen offers a competitive salary plus equity.
Why Join Imperagen
This is a rare opportunity to build something foundational. You will join a skilled and motivated team, working on real-world systems where software, models, and experimental science come together.
Closing date: Wednesday 13th May
Relevant candidates should reach out to us on:
Biocatalysis & Analytical Development Scientist in Manchester employer: Imperagen
Contact Detail:
Imperagen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Biocatalysis & Analytical Development Scientist in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the biocatalysis field on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation showcasing your past projects and achievements in enzyme engineering. This can really impress during interviews and set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers, especially around your experience with analytical techniques and biocatalysis. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in biocatalysis. Your dream job could be just a click away!
We think you need these skills to ace Biocatalysis & Analytical Development Scientist in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your expertise in biocatalysis, analytical techniques, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about enzyme engineering and how your background aligns with our goals at Imperagen. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since teamwork is key in our multidisciplinary environment, mention any collaborative projects or experiences you've had. We want to know how you work with others and contribute to a team dynamic!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperagen
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your biocatalysis and enzyme chemistry knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like HPLC, UPLC, and LC-MS, as well as your experience with molecular biology experiments. The more you can demonstrate your expertise, the better!
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams before. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve contributed to group projects, especially in a lab setting.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them, particularly in enzyme engineering or analytical development. This will show your ability to think critically and adapt.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the company’s AI platform, their approach to closed-loop experimentation, or how they envision the future of biocatalysis. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company.