Research Associate – Target Discovery and Validation
Chesterford research Park – Cambridge
12 month FTC
Competitive salary plus extensive benefits package and on site parking.
Never losing sight of our purpose.
At Mestag we truly believe in our values and live by them every day. We’re ambitious about our science and its potential to deliver meaningful therapeutics to the patients that need them most. We believe in a culture of diversity, equality and investing in people to ensure our talented and passionate team members can fulfil their full potential.
We are based in spacious and modern laboratory and office facilities at Chesterford Research Park near Cambridge, UK – right in the very heart of the UK life science sector. Our facilities are kitted out with state-of-the-art instruments to enable our dedicated researchers to deliver incredible science.
This is an exciting opportunity for a science graduate with some lab experience looking to take their first step into the biotechnology industry. The role offers excellent exposure to a cutting-edge biotech environment, providing the chance to develop practical skills, learn from experienced researchers, and contribute to impactful scientific work. It is ideal for someone early in their career who is eager to learn, develop their laboratory skills, and contribute to a collaborative scientific environment where teamwork and passion for science are key. With hands on training and supportive mentorship, this is a fantastic opportunity to grow and progress within the field.
The role offers a unique opportunity to experience key aspects of laboratory life as a bench research scientist within Mestag’s Target Discovery team using the proprietary RAFT platform. Here you will be involved in the development of 3 dimensional models of human disease using cutting edge technologies including bioprinting, multilayer spheroid systems, CRISPR screening and 3D high content imaging.
Responsibilities
Research Scientist (training provided)
- Assist Senior Scientists with routine experimental workflows and data collection.
- Cell immortalisation, viral transformation and cloning.
- Support basic cell culture activities transitioning to more complex 3D culture model assembly as training allows. This can be both in model development and screening modes.
- Sample analysis including 2 & 3-dimensional high content imaging, ligand analysis (eg ELISA), western blot analysis, spectral cytometry and RT QPCR.
- CRISPR KO generation, cell bulking and screening.
Minimum qualifications and experience:
You will thrive in this role if you are enthusiastic, organised, and ready to learn. The ideal candidate will have:
Essential
- A degree in a biological or life science discipline (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Molecular Biology or related field).
- Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to laboratory work.
- Willingness to learn new techniques and contribute to a busy research environment.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
Desirable
- Previous laboratory experience (including university, summer placement, or internship).
- Familiarity with basic lab equipment and sterile working practices.
- Previous cell culture experience
- Understanding of good documentation practices including the use of electronic laboratory notebooks.
In return we can offer you
We work flexibly with a strong team spirit and offer a highly competitive total rewards package including competitive salaries, pension contributions, private medical insurance, income protection and more.
We have access to a range of onsite facilities including a gym, canteen, golf course and free on-site parking.
As a team we achieve great things each day, and we take the time to celebrate successes, share and learn. We value the relationships of our close-knit team and strive to make meaningful connections in our community. We frequently hold Town Halls and team lunches, and have an active social committee, organizing regular events and ‘giving back’ activities supporting charities close to our hearts.
We are now transitioning our lead programme into clinic - There has never been a better time to join #TeamMestag
About Mestag Therapeutics
Mestag harnesses new insights into fibroblast-immune interactions to develop impactful treatments for patients. We are progressing a pipeline of sophisticated first-in-class antibodies designed to improve the lives of patients with cancer and inflammatory disease. Together with our collaboration partner we are also identifying novel targets for future therapies using Mestag’s proprietary RAFT target discovery platform.
Our founding investigators comprise global experts in inflammatory disease, cancer, computational biology and fibroblast biology from the University of Oxford, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. We are supported by leading life science investors SV Health Investors, Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JJDC, Inc., Forbion, GV (formerly Google Ventures) and Northpond Ventures.
Mestag is headquartered in Cambridge, UK, and in 2021 was recognized on the Fierce 15 list of innovative biotechnology companies.
For further information please visit our website www.mestagtherapeutics.com
