Research Scientist – hiPSC & Cardiac Differentiation in Sharnbrook

VivoSphere UK, the UK arm of U.S.-based biotech company VivoSphere, is an innovative life sciences company based at Colworth Science Park, Bedfordshire, dedicated to advancing human-relevant biological models for research and therapeutic discovery. We specialise in developing 3D tissue engineering platforms using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) to create next-generation in vitro models.

We are seeking an initiative-taking and skilled Research Scientist to join the VivoSphere team on a 10-month contract. The successful candidate will contribute to our research programmes focused on hiPSC culture, cardiac differentiation, and 3D tissue engineering. This is an exciting opportunity for a scientist looking to develop expertise at the forefront of stem cell and 3D tissue engineering technology within a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and expand hiPSC lines under feeder-free and defined culture conditions
• Execute and optimise cardiac differentiation protocols to generate cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) with high efficiency and purity
• Perform quality control assessments including pluripotency characterisation, differentiation efficiency analyses, and functional assays including cell viability assessment and fluorescent imaging
• Troubleshoot and refine cell culture workflows to ensure reproducibility and scalability
• Contribute to the development and optimisation of 3D cardiac tissue constructs using hydrogels, scaffolds, and bioreactor systems
• Assist in the fabrication and validation of micro-tissue models incorporating hiPSC-derived cardiac tissue
• Contribute to the development of 3D cardiac tissue constructs, with opportunities to expand into additional tissue types

Data Analysis & Statistics

• Collect, process, and analyse experimental data using appropriate statistical methods
• Perform quantitative image analysis of cell morphology, tissue organisation, and functional assays
• Use software tools (e.g. GraphPad Prism, R, Python, ImageJ/FIJI) for data visualisation and statistical reporting
• Contribute to the preparation of clear, accurate scientific reports and presentations

General Laboratory Duties

• Maintain detailed, accurate laboratory notebooks and experimental records in compliance with GLP and internal quality standards
• Ensure safe working practices in line with institutional health and safety policies
• Actively participate in team meetings, scientific discussions, and knowledge-sharing activities
• Support the ordering and management of laboratory consumables and reagents

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD (completed or in progress) in Cell Biology, Biomedical Science, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Practical, hands-on experience working with hiPSC lines, including routine maintenance and passaging
• Demonstrated understanding of stem cell biology principles and differentiation methodologies
• Competence in standard cell culture techniques, such as sterile technique, microscopy, flow cytometry, and/or immunofluorescence
• Experience with data analysis and the ability to apply basic statistical approaches to biological datasets
• Strong attention to detail, scientific rigour, and a commitment to reproducible research
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English
• Direct experience with cardiac differentiation protocols and characterisation of hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes
• Familiarity with 3D tissue engineering techniques, including hydrogel-based systems, organoids, or organ-on-a-chip platforms
• Experience with bioreactor culture systems or microfluidic devices
• Proficiency in quantitative data analysis using standard analysis software knowledge of functional assays for cardiomyocyte assessment (e.g. calcium imaging, contractility measurements, MEA)
• Experience preparing scientific reports, posters, or publications
• Prior experience in an industrial or commercial research environment

What We Offer

• A stimulating and supportive research environment at one of the UK's leading science parks
• Hands-on experience with hiPSC and 3D tissue engineering platforms
• Mentorship from experienced scientists and opportunities for professional development
• Exposure to translational research with real-world biomedical applications
• Competitive remuneration
• International collaborative work possibilities
• Potential opportunities for future advancement

VivoSphere is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, in accordance with the Equality Act 2016.