Senior Scientist I – Molecular Biology

We are a dynamic team of 50 people with a passion for science and delivering for our customers. At Ingenza, we are turbocharging biological systems to make everything from therapeutics to enzymes and consumer products, addressing challenges in human health and the global environment. We are a high-growth SME, driven by our values, culture of integrity, and scientific excellence.

There is an exciting opportunity for a Molecular Biologist with excellent knowledge in microbial strain and Microbiology to join our team. The candidate must be able to work collaboratively in a Molecular Biology laboratory, multitask to reach tight project deadlines and show an aptitude for learning new skills as well as leading by example as a Senior member of our Molecular Biology department. Attention to experimental rigour and the ability to carefully record and present methods and results is essential. Excellent communication and presentation skills are required.

In return, the successful candidate will be embedded within a dynamic, sociable team in a lab-based role with flexible working hours. This position will be based at brand new facilities at the Edinburgh Technopole where there is regular bus links to the City Centre, free on-site parking, nature trails, and an on-site cafe – the perfect setting to meet colleagues over a coffee in view of the Pentland Hills.

Skills/Experience

• A PhD or Masters in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Industrial Biotechnology (or closely aligned subject). For Master-level candidates, at least four years of industry experience is essential;
• Excellent knowledge in, and ability to independently carry out, molecular biology techniques such as vector design, PCR, cloning methods (Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate, traditional endonuclease/ligase reactions, etc.), electrophoresis, electroporation or other transformation methods, and aseptic techniques;
• Knowledge and experience (preferred) in handling multiple microbial hosts (e.g. Escherichia coli, Pichia pastoris, Bacillus subtilis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, etc.) is essential;
• Good knowledge of recombinant protein analysis methods such as ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western Blot;
• Excellent numeracy skills and a strong problem-solving ability;
• Proven ability to plan, conduct and troubleshoot experiments both independently, and as part of a team;
• Very good critical information-seeking skills to analyse precedents and guide experimental design;
• The candidate must be able to multitask, have excellent attention to detail and time management skills;
• Excellent organisational skills and a flexible hard-working approach are key attributes for this position.

Other Desirable Skills include:

• Previous line management or mentoring experience;
• Experience in CHO/HEK293 cell culture (including transfection and stable cell line generation), gene editing and cell line development for recombinant antibody production is desirable;
• Good knowledge of protein purification methods like affinity, ion exchange and size exclusion chromatography (ideally using the ÄKTA system);
• Experience in working under a Quality Management System (SOP’s, RA’s etc);
• Knowledge and experience in screening methodology, enzyme biochemistry;
• Knowledge and experience of standard bioinformatics software packages;
• Experience in Microbiology/Fermentation settings.

Specifics

• Position: Senior Scientist I
• Closing date: Friday, 29th of May 2026
• Hours: 37.5 h, Monday – Friday
• Work pattern: Days
• Duration: Permanent
• Pension: Available
• Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
• Unum Help@Hand health and wellbeing services
• BUPA level 1 health expenses cover
• Nearby gym
• Nearby childcare
• Free on-site parking
• Performance based annual bonus
• Cycle to work scheme
• Paid for company nights out
• Fully stocked kitchen
• Celebrating colleague milestones

Ingenza believes that we best serve our customers by creating and supporting an inclusive and diverse team. All the qualified applicants will be considered regardless of their race, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, nationality, disabilities, or age.