At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and synthesis of synthetic peptides for innovative diagnostic tools.
- Company: Join Virax Biolabs, a cutting-edge biotech company in Glasgow.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, stock options, and generous leave.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health with precision diagnostics and peptide science.
- Qualifications: Experience in peptide synthesis and analytical techniques required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Virax Biolabs UK Ltd is an innovative biotechnology company focused on immune-response detection technologies. The company is developing its flagship ViraxImmune™ profiling platform, aimed at supporting the development of in vitro diagnostic (IVD) assays for chronic and post-infectious conditions, including Long Covid, Lyme disease and ME/CFS. In parallel, Virax Biolabs is expanding ImmuneSelect, a portfolio of products and services supporting immunology and clinical research. We are recruiting a Peptide Scientist to join our team at BioCity Glasgow.
In this role, you will lead the design, synthesis, and analytical characterisation of synthetic peptides supporting both our diagnostic platform development and research product activities. The position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the development of precision diagnostic tools, while building and expanding our in-house peptide manufacturing capabilities.
Key Responsibilities- Design, plan, and execute synthetic peptide projects from concept to completion, including selection of synthesis strategy, protecting group chemistry, and scale considerations.
- Perform solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and systematically optimise synthesis protocols to improve yield, purity, and reproducibility.
- Purify and characterise peptides using HPLC, LC-MS, and complementary analytical techniques; assess and document peptide identity, purity, and stability.
- Utilise bioinformatics and structural tools such as Chimera, PyMOL, and ExPASy for peptide and protein sequence analysis, structural modelling, and design support.
- Design experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot complex technical issues across synthesis and analytical workflows.
- Train and mentor technicians and students in laboratory techniques, instrument operation, and best practices for peptide science.
- R or MSc with 4 - 5 years of relevant research or industry experience.
- Demonstrated experience in peptide synthesis and purification techniques, including solid-phase approaches.
- Proficiency with analytical methods including HPLC, LC-MS, and spectroscopy for peptide characterisation.
- Working knowledge of coding tools such as Python and Jupyter Notebook for data processing or analysis workflows.
- Strong documentation practices and data interpretation skills, with attention to detail and a structured approach to experimental work.
- Well-organised and confident working in a quality-conscious laboratory environment.
- Experience with large-scale or automated SPPS platforms, or plate-based peptide synthesisers.
- Knowledge of peptide and protein modifications, including labelling, conjugation, and post-synthetic chemical modifications.
What Virax Biolabs Offers: We offer a competitive compensation package, designed to reward performance while supporting long-term growth and flexibility. Competitive base salary, aligned with experience. Performance-based bonus structure. Employee stock option scheme. 28 days' annual leave plus UK bank holidays. Pension scheme with 6% employer and 2% employee contributions.
Peptide Scientist employer: Virax Biolabs
Virax Biolabs UK Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of BioCity Glasgow, where innovation thrives. Employees benefit from a competitive compensation package, including performance-based bonuses and stock options, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development in the cutting-edge field of biotechnology. The collaborative culture fosters creativity and teamwork, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advancing diagnostic technologies and contributing to meaningful health solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Peptide Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the biotech field, especially those working at Virax Biolabs or similar companies. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your peptide synthesis projects and any relevant research. This will give you an edge during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Peptide Scientist and be ready to discuss specific techniques you've mastered.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the Virax Biolabs team and contributing to their innovative projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Peptide Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Peptide Scientist role. Highlight your experience with peptide synthesis, purification techniques, and any relevant analytical methods like HPLC or LC-MS. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about peptide science and how your background aligns with our mission at Virax Biolabs. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency with coding tools like Python and Jupyter Notebook. If you've used bioinformatics tools or have experience with large-scale SPPS platforms, make sure to include that too. We’re keen on candidates who can bring technical expertise to the table!
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 you’re serious about joining our team at Virax Biolabs!
How to prepare for a job interview at Virax Biolabs
✨Know Your Peptides
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of peptide synthesis and purification techniques. Be ready to discuss your experience with solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and how you've optimised protocols in the past. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory, but also have practical insights.
✨Showcase Analytical Skills
Prepare to talk about your proficiency with analytical methods like HPLC and LC-MS. Bring examples of how you've used these techniques to characterise peptides and troubleshoot issues. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial for the role.
✨Familiarity with Bioinformatics Tools
Since the job involves using bioinformatics tools like Chimera and PyMOL, make sure you can discuss how you've applied these in your previous work. If you have experience with coding tools like Python or Jupyter Notebook, highlight that too, as it shows you're tech-savvy and can handle data processing.
✨Team Player Mindset
Virax Biolabs values collaboration, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked with cross-functional teams. Discuss any mentoring or training experiences you've had, as this will illustrate your ability to lead and support others in a lab environment.
