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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to assist in groundbreaking research and hands-on lab work.
- Company: Xterna, a dynamic biotech start-up revolutionising drug delivery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, unlimited tea, coffee, and snacks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a small team and drive scientific innovation.
- Qualifications: BSc in Biochemistry or related field with wet-lab experience.
- Other info: Exciting growth opportunities in a collaborative and curious environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 41000 £ per year.
Overview
Research Assistant – (entry level, requires minimum BSc or equivalent) R&D, Central London (Victoria House, WC1B 4DA), UK
- Full time or part-time (3 consecutive days) would be considered for the right candidate.
- This is a hands-on role so in-office presence is expected on all working days.
- Fixed term 12-month position with potential for extension, reporting to the CSO.
- We are looking for someone to join as soon as possible, by spring at the latest.
Due to the high volume of applications being received this posting will close this week, please apply ASAP.
About us
Xterna is a venture-backed start-up using alternative nucleic acids to revolutionise targeted drug delivery. Xterna develops cell-specific binders composed of modified nucleic acids (XNA) and investigates their usage when linked to therapeutic cargo. Xterna uses techniques including nucleic acid manipulation and selections, qPCR, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, sequencing, immune cell assays and mammalian cell culture. Xterna is now seeking a research assistant to aid our scientific team in sample preparation, working in line with our core company values: compassion, integrity and scientific curiosity.
Responsibilities
- Use established protocols to synthesise material for testing. You will work alongside our research team to prepare material weekly for testing.
- Assist with in vitro assay delivery. Alongside sample preparation, you may also perform in vitro assays and collect experimental data.
- Document and communicate results in a timely and clear manner using our ELN system and discuss any challenges in weekly team meetings.
- Contribute to day-to-day lab running – such as monitoring lab stocks for ordering, preparing buffers, and contributing to SOP writing.
Need-to-have
- Minimum BSc or equivalent experience in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field with hands-on experience in a wet-lab environment.
- Experience in PCR, DNA/RNA purification and agarose/PAGE gels.
- Interest in learning new in vitro techniques.
- Self-motivated, scientifically curious and excited to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Detail-oriented, organised, with exceptional communication and presentation skills.
- Driven and excited by challenge, and open to change.
- Right to work in the UK.
Nice-to-have
- Experience in bead-based nucleic acid manipulation.
- Experience in mammalian cell culture.
- Experience in flow cytometry.
- Experience in or knowledge of confocal microscopy.
If you do not fulfil all requirements, please do not hesitate to reach out and tell us more about your specific experiences! Our perfect candidate does not need to tick every box.
You’ll love this role if:
- You want to work in a small team. Xterna is currently a team of 5, so you’ll be reporting directly to the founders.
- You want to feel a tangible impact in your work – helping drive scientific direction, and company culture.
- You are self-driven – in a small team with no time to waste, we trust that you will get on with it!
Xterna is a highly ambitious startup with a core founding team and strong advisory network, driven by science that has the promise for global patient impact, in addition to building a collaborative and curious workplace environment. We are a small but growing team; you are joining at a time where you will feel a tangible contribution to the development of the science and company itself.
We are based in Victoria House, a landmark London facility for early-stage biotech companies. Offering bike storage and servicing, unlimited tea, coffee and snacks, social events and weekly welfare activities (including pilates and yoga).
Xterna is an equal opportunities employer, offering competitive London salaries, pension scheme and future additional benefits. This is an entry level position with a starting salary of £36,000-£41,000 pro rata depending on experience.
To apply please head to our website and complete the application form. If you experience any issues please get in touch. We would like to hear from applicants directly, so will not be accepting enquiries from recruiters at this time, thank you.
Research Assistant in London employer: Xterna
Contact Detail:
Xterna Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Research Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews like a pro! Research Xterna, understand their work with nucleic acids, and be ready to discuss how your skills fit into their projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who’s genuinely excited about their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable talking about your experiences and skills. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows you’re professional and keen, which can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for biochemistry and molecular biology shine through. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the work we do at Xterna and how you can contribute to our mission.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any hands-on lab work or techniques like PCR and gel electrophoresis. We’re looking for someone who fits right into our team, so show us how your skills align with the role!
Be Clear and Concise: In your cover letter, keep it straightforward. Clearly outline your experiences and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Research Assistant position. We appreciate clarity and directness in communication!
Apply ASAP!: Given the high volume of applications, don’t wait around! Head over to our website and submit your application as soon as possible. We’re eager to find the right candidate to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Xterna
✨Know Your Nucleic Acids
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of nucleic acids and their applications in drug delivery. Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with PCR, DNA/RNA purification, and any other relevant techniques. Showing genuine enthusiasm for the subject will definitely impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity
Xterna values scientific curiosity, so come ready to share examples of how you've pursued new techniques or solved problems in the lab. Think of specific instances where you took the initiative to learn something new or adapt to changes in your work environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll be documenting and communicating results, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to explain complex concepts in simple terms, as this will showcase your communication skills and ability to work within a small team.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a small team, Xterna is looking for someone who can collaborate effectively. Be ready to discuss how you've worked in teams before, especially in fast-paced environments. Highlight your adaptability and willingness to contribute to day-to-day lab operations, as this will show you're a good fit for their culture.
