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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to optimise DNA processes and tackle exciting technical challenges.
- Company: Touchlight is revolutionising genetic medicines with innovative DNA manufacturing technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive pay, and a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment that values creativity and scientific innovation.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in Molecular Biology or related field; two years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Us
Do you want to work with a team that is changing science and enabling the next generation of genetic medicines? The stellar growth in cell and gene therapy has accelerated the need for a better quality, faster and more robust DNA manufacturing technology. Touchlight has created a new DNA vector for use in advanced genetic medicines that is safer and more efficacious than conventional plasmid DNA. Our unique platform also enables DNA production at unprecedented scale, speed and purity. We believe that DNA is fundamental to the future of medicine and our CDMO has a focus on the following areas:
- Nucleic acid medicines (mRNA and DNA).
- Ex-vivo and in-vivo cell and genetic medicines.
- Gene therapy using viral vectors and gene editing.
- Autologous and allogenic cell therapy.
Role Overview:
Touchlight is currently seeking an experienced pDNA Development Scientist to join its Molecular Biology Team to develop and optimise processes and platforms for the starting material of dbDNA™ – plasmid. This is an exciting, fast-paced environment suited to initiative-taking individuals who can contribute to and successfully work in a multidisciplinary team. Your role will be to optimise current processes for the amplification and purification of plasmid templates, to help develop platforms for technical challenges surrounding scale up, and designing studies to provide solutions for clients' needs. There will also be an element of genetically engineering plasmid DNA in creative ways, with a big focus on purity, quality, and yield - allowing the best attributes of the downstream process to be harnessed.
Skills and Experience:
- A postgraduate degree level qualification in Molecular Biology, Microbiology (or a related discipline).
- A minimum of two years industrial experience working in a related field.
- Experience in setup and operation of a bioreactor (or similar) system is essential.
- Experience in operating other liquid handling automation systems would be advantageous.
- Well-versed in DNA purification techniques at medium-large scales, knowledge of other biological purification methods would also be advantageous.
- Experience in aseptic technique and controlled environments.
- Familiarity with industry quality standards, such as ISO/cGMP is desirable. Experience working within a Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) or Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) environment would be advantageous.
- Ability to design experiments independently and document key information in report formats.
The successful candidate will be bringing ideas to life, and must therefore be engaged with science, adaptable to new approaches, and eager to work with a fast-moving team.
Touchlight Benefits
Touchlight is a successful scale-up business with a record of world-leading innovation and a welcoming, entrepreneurial culture. We make Touchlight an extraordinary place to work by providing our employees with incredible facilities, flexible working and a competitive benefits and remuneration package.
A Place for Everyone
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. If you need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please speak with the HR team who will be happy to support you.
Locations
pDNA Development Scientist employer: Touchlight
Contact Detail:
Touchlight Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land pDNA Development Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in plasmid DNA technology and gene therapy. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews, showcasing your passion and knowledge.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of molecular biology and genetic medicines. Attend relevant conferences or webinars where you can meet industry experts and learn about their experiences, which could provide valuable insights and connections that may help you land the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience with bioreactor systems and DNA purification techniques. Being able to articulate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills will demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your adaptability and eagerness to learn new techniques or approaches in your discussions. Touchlight values initiative-taking individuals, so highlighting your willingness to embrace change and tackle challenges will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace pDNA Development Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in molecular biology, microbiology, and any specific skills related to DNA purification techniques. Emphasise your industrial experience and any work with bioreactors or liquid handling automation systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for genetic medicines and your understanding of the role. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to optimise processes and work in a multidisciplinary team.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your familiarity with industry quality standards like ISO/cGMP and your experience in aseptic techniques. This will show that you are well-prepared for the challenges of the role.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Abilities: Provide examples of how you've designed experiments independently and documented key information in report formats. This will illustrate your capability to tackle technical challenges and contribute effectively to the team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Touchlight
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you have a solid understanding of molecular biology and the specific techniques related to plasmid DNA. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in detail, especially any relevant projects or research you've conducted.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Since the role involves optimising processes and overcoming technical challenges, be ready to share examples of how you've tackled similar issues in the past. Highlight your ability to think critically and creatively when faced with obstacles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Standards
Brush up on ISO/cGMP standards and Good Laboratory Practices. Showing that you understand these regulations will demonstrate your readiness to work in a controlled environment and your commitment to quality.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Teamwork
Touchlight values collaboration, so express your eagerness to work within a multidisciplinary team. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, and highlight your adaptability in fast-paced environments.
