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- Tasks: Join us in developing rapid pathogen detection assays and optimise lab experiments.
- Company: Pictura Bio, a cutting-edge spin-out from the University of Oxford.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic lab environment with growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture focused on innovation and quality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare by advancing diagnostic technology.
- Qualifications: BSc or MSc in relevant fields; lab experience in assay development preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
Pictura Bio is a well‑funded University of Oxford spin‑out developing a novel diagnostic platform for rapid pathogen detection. Our technology combines fluorescence microscopy with automated image analysis and machine learning to identify pathogens in seconds. The platform is being translated into clinical diagnostic products, initially focused on respiratory infections, with broader applications across infectious disease.
Role Purpose
You will play a hands‑on role in the development, optimisation, and validation of the Pictura Bio assay. Working closely with assay development, imaging, and data science teams, you will support the transition of a research‑stage assay into a robust, reproducible diagnostic workflow. This role is fully on‑site and laboratory‑based, and is suited to a scientist with strong experimental skills, experience in fluorescence microscopy, and an understanding of working within a quality‑managed environment. You will be expected to generate high‑quality experimental data, document work rigorously, and contribute to assay robustness, reproducibility, and performance verification.
Major Accountabilities
- Design, execute, and document laboratory experiments supporting assay development
- Optimise fluorescence labelling protocols for viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens
- Perform fluorescence microscopy imaging using standardised protocols
- Support development and refinement of imaging workflows (sample prep, imaging parameters)
- Analyse experimental data and contribute to interpretation of assay performance
- Verify and validate assay performance (e.g. repeatability, sensitivity, specificity, robustness)
- Maintain accurate, detailed laboratory records in line with quality requirements
- Contribute to SOPs, protocols, and technical documentation
- Work in accordance with company quality systems, policies, and procedures
- Collaborate closely with assay, imaging, and software teams to support end‑to‑end assay development
- Undertake other reasonable duties consistent with the role and level
Ideal Background
Education
- BSc or MSc in a relevant discipline (e.g. Biophysics, Biomedical Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering)
- PhD desirable but not essential
Experience
- Hands‑on laboratory experience in assay development or bioanalytical testing
- Practical experience with fluorescence microscopy (widefield, epifluorescence, TIRF, or confocal)
- Experience working under a Quality Management System (e.g. ISO 13485, ISO 15189, GLP, GxP, or similar)
- Experience in an industrial, translational, or regulated laboratory environment is highly desirable
Skills
- Strong experimental and practical laboratory skills
- Good understanding of assay development principles and experimental controls
- Familiarity with fluorescence labelling and sample preparation
- Ability to follow and improve SOPs and experimental protocols
- Strong attention to detail and excellent record‑keeping
- Comfortable analysing data and reporting results clearly
- Familiarity with image analysis software is an advantage
- Basic Python or data analysis skills are beneficial but not essential
Personal Attributes
- Methodical, careful, and data/quality‑driven
- Comfortable working in a fast‑moving, early‑stage company
- Willing to challenge results constructively and troubleshoot experiments
- Collaborative and communicative
Scientist Assay Development in England employer: PicturaBio
Contact Detail:
PicturaBio Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist Assay Development in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Pictura Bio. Attend relevant events or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills. Since this role involves hands-on lab work, be ready to discuss your experience with fluorescence microscopy and assay development. Practise explaining your past projects clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the field! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share why you’re excited about pathogen detection and how you can contribute to their mission. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist Assay Development in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in assay development and fluorescence microscopy. We want to see how your skills match up with what we're looking for, so don’t be shy about showcasing your hands-on lab work!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about the role at Pictura Bio and how your background makes you a great fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm and a clear understanding of our mission.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: Since we’re all about quality and precision, make sure your application is free from typos and errors. We appreciate candidates who take the time to present their work meticulously, just like we do in the lab!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at PicturaBio
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of assay development and fluorescence microscopy. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used and how they relate to the role at Pictura Bio. This shows you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your experimental skills and understanding of quality management systems. Review relevant protocols and be prepared to explain how you've optimised lab processes in the past. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with various teams, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated in a lab setting. Highlight how you communicated findings and contributed to team goals. This will show that you're a team player who can thrive in a collaborative environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's technology and future projects. This not only shows your interest in the role but also your enthusiasm for contributing to their mission. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.