At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to produce and characterise antibodies and proteins for groundbreaking therapies.
- Company: Be part of an innovative biotech company revolutionising targeted medicines.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic lab environment with potential for growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities to work on cutting-edge therapeutic projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biotechnology while developing your skills in protein chemistry.
- Qualifications: Degree in Biochemistry or related field with lab experience in protein workflows.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
6 MONTH CONTRACT --- ONSITE IN CAMBRIDGE, MA
Company Summary
Ring Therapeutics Inc. is a privately held, early-stage biotechnology company pioneering a new field of targeted medicines by exploiting naturally occurring commensal viruses. Ring Therapeutics is leveraging this versatile technology to develop a broad pipeline of novel, targeted medicines for diseases with high unmet medical need.
Ring Therapeutics was founded in Flagship Pioneering’s venture creation engine, where companies such as Moderna Therapeutics (NASDAQ: MRNA) and Generate Biomedicines (NASDAQ: GENB) were conceived and created. Since Flagship’s founding in 2000, the firm has originated and fostered the development of more than 100 scientific ventures resulting in more than 500 issued patents and more than 50 clinical trials for novel therapeutic agents.
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our Protein Chemistry & Bioconjugation team. This is a hands-on bench role focused on supporting the production, modification, and characterization of antibodies, proteins, and bioconjugates that underpin our targeted therapeutic programs.
The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in standard protein workflows and bioconjugation chemistry and can generate high-quality, decision-driving data to advance platform development. Experience with or exposure to ADC or other biologics research and development is particularly desirable. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on role requiring scientific independence and a strong focus on delivering well-characterized, high-quality protein and conjugate inputs to enable downstream assay development and candidate selection.
Key Responsibilities
Antibody & Protein Conjugation
- Execute common bioconjugation reactions.
- Prepare and characterize antibody- and protein-conjugated constructs (e.g., fluorophore labeling and payload attachment).
- Perform post-conjugation purification techniques including desalting columns and TFF.
Protein Processing & Characterization
- Perform standard protein analytics and concentration measurements
- Prepare formulation buffers and working reagents
- Conduct buffer exchange and protein concentration
Lab Operations & Collaboration
- Maintain accurate experimental records and SOPs in an electronic lab notebook (ELN)
- Ensure proper inventory management of reagents, consumables, and protein stocks
- Present data clearly and provide actionable recommendations to project teams
- Collaborate cross-functionally with targeting, protein engineering, analytical, and translational teams to ensure materials align with program needs
Required Qualifications
- S. or M.S. in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Chemistry, or a related field
- 1–3+ years of hands-on laboratory experience in a biotech, pharma, or academic research setting
- Demonstrated proficiency in standard protein workflows:
- Protein concentration measurement (UV-Vis spectroscopy, BCA, Bradford)
- Protein characterization techniques (SDS-PAGE, DLS)
- Buffer preparation and formulation
- Buffer exchange via dialysis
- Hands-on experience with at least one bioconjugation chemistry approach (e.g., NHS ester, maleimide, click chemistry)
- Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and rigorous documentation habits
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)
- Familiarity with TFF systems including µPulse TFF
- Experience with SEC-HPLC or analytical HPLC for purity/conjugation analysis
- Experience with protein purification workflows including IMAC, SEC, and ion exchange chromatography
- Experience with data analysis tools (GraphPad Prism, imageJ)
Key Competencies
- Hands-on proficiency in bench-scale protein chemistry and bioconjugation
- Methodical approach to experimental execution and troubleshooting
- High standards for data quality, reproducibility, and documentation
- Clear, concise communication of technical results to cross-functional team members
- Proactive, team-oriented mindset with flexibility to support evolving project priorities
Research Associate, Protein Chemistry & Bioconjugation (6 MONTH CONTRACT) in Cambridge employer: Ring Therapeutics
Ring Therapeutics Inc. is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant biotech hub of Cambridge, MA, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering targeted medicines. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that fosters scientific independence and professional growth. The company provides hands-on experience in cutting-edge research, along with access to a broad pipeline of novel therapies, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the biotechnology field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate, Protein Chemistry & Bioconjugation (6 MONTH CONTRACT) in Cambridge
✨Join Biotechnology Meetups
Get yourself into the loop by joining local biotech meetups or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections with professionals in the field and can often lead to temporary gigs through word-of-mouth. Plus, you'll get to hear about the latest trends and developments directly from the source.
✨Showcase Your Passion in Science
Consider starting a blog or social media channel to showcase your interest in biotechnology. Share the latest research, your insights, and even your projects. This will not only enhance your visibility in the community but also attract potential employers like Ring Therapeutics who might be scrolling through for talent.
✨Tap into University Resources
If you’re still in school or recently graduated, don’t forget to use your university’s career services. They often have exclusive connections with companies looking for temporary staff. Reach out to them for internship listings and networking opportunities tailored to the biotech sector.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you spot that perfect temporary role at Ring Therapeutics, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, you’ll be in the best position to get noticed quickly and can show your enthusiasm for the role while filling out the application.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Relevant Lab Skills:In the biotech world, your lab skills are paramount. Make sure your CV highlights specific techniques and equipment you’ve used, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, or cell culture. This will give us a clear picture of what you can bring to Ring Therapeutics as a temporary teammate.
Highlight Your Research Experience:If you’ve worked on any research projects — whether during your studies or in previous positions — make sure to detail these in your application. Include the objective, your role, and what you achieved. This will help us see your potential and fit for the temporary position at Ring Therapeutics.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Especially for a temporary role, we want to see a clear and focused application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasise the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the biotech field and the specific role at Ring Therapeutics. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and capable.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it’s a temporary role, let us know right away when you’re available to start and how long you can commit. Include this in your cover letter — this kind of transparency saves us all time and helps us find the right fit quickly at Ring Therapeutics.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ring Therapeutics
✨Brush Up on Your Biotech Basics
Understanding the fundamental concepts in biotechnology is crucial. Be ready to discuss core topics like genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, especially if you're asked technical questions. We suggest revisiting your coursework or recent projects to refresh your memory.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, they’re likely looking for someone who can jump in and get up to speed quickly. Share experiences where you’ve adapted to new environments, tools, or teams in a short space of time. It shows you're ready to tackle the challenge head-on!
✨Emphasise Your Lab Experience
If you’ve got hands-on experience in lab settings, now’s the time to showcase it. Talk about specific techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, and any relevant safety protocols you’ve followed. These details help paint you as an effective team member from day one.
✨Be Prepared to Explain Your Passion
Hiring managers want to see your motivation, especially for a temporary position in a fast-paced field like biotechnology. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the industry, your career goals, and how this role at Ring Therapeutics aligns with them. It’s all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a stepping stone in your biotech journey.
