Senior Research & Development Scientist in Cheshire, Hampton

Touchlight pioneers scalable, cell-free DNA technology, transforming gene therapy and genetic medicine. With a commitment to innovation, excellence, and a diverse team, we push boundaries to deliver safer, more efficient solutions for the future.

At Touchlight, we’ve reimagined DNA production to meet the evolving needs of innovators like you. Our patented synthetic DNA vector, dbDNA™, and cell-free enzymatic manufacturing platform deliver DNA with unmatched speed, scale, and purity, helping you move faster from discovery to clinic.

Whether you’re developing mRNA, viral vector, or vaccines, Touchlight helps you overcome the limits of plasmid manufacturing. No cell banking. Just high-quality RUO or GMP DNA, ready when you need it.

Touchlight is currently seeking an experienced scientist to join its Analytical Development department. This role would be suitable for someone with a passion for the development of analytical tools for solving a wide range of client-specific testing requirements. The role requires a scientist with a high level of communication, planning and organisation, very dynamic, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, dealing with multiple stakeholders, and managing evolving priorities.

The Senior Analytical Development Scientist is primarily responsible for supporting the team during all assay development activities including those required for a regulated environment, as well as participating in the sampling and testing using analytical tools. There will be a close interaction with the other operational departments to support ongoing project and product needs. The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of Analytical Development.

• Contribute to the hands-on development and validation of analytical assays for both internal and external programmes, in line with regulatory expectations.
• Work collaboratively with Programme Management, Quality, Supply Chain, Development, Manufacturing, and other departments, to meet deliverables and timelines.
• Ensure the organisation can deliver on a highly complex analytical testing portfolio whilst maintaining a high throughput of customer and internal projects.
• Participate in client meetings and support with client project communication.
• Maintain the calibration, qualification and validation of analytical testing equipment.

Bachelor’s/Master's/PhD Degree in one of the following fields of study: Background in an Analytical Development environment. ELISA, enzyme activity assays, qPCR/digital PCR, U/HPLC, Capillary Electrophoresis, Asymmetric Field Flow Fractionation, mass spectrometry is essential. Knowledge of equipment and instrument calibration, qualification, and validation (UPLC, mass spectrometry, UV Spectrometry, real-time PCR/Digital PCR, Plate readers, Sanger Sequencing).

We make Touchlight an extraordinary place to work by providing our employees with incredible facilities, flexible working and a competitive benefits and remuneration package. We believe diversity drives innovation and for that reason we strongly encourage those from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Touchlight. We are an equal opportunity employer and aim to build a workforce that is truly representative of the communities in which we operate and our customers.