The Opportunity

Using our core technology, the SpyTag/SpyCatcher protein superglue, you will be part of the preclinical vaccine development team working on the production of vaccine candidates against infectious diseases.  The position involves supporting the on-going programme of vaccine development with a particular emphasis on recombinant protein production, purification, and QC analysis. Further, you will provide scientific and technical support where required to advance activities pertaining to research and development and quality control. 

We are seeking a highly organised and motivated individual, with a working knowledge and practical experience with insect cell systems for recombinant protein expression. Experience working with bacterial, yeast and mammalian protein expression systems would be advantageous.  You will be proficient in protein purification using AKTA FPLC systems, in addition to downstream QC analyses.  The ideal candidate will have good interpersonal skills and be able to interact productively and accurately with other team members. Previous laboratory experience, good teamwork, and the ability to innovate are essential.

There is significant excitement about the technology in the field, thus this position offers excellent career progression as the company grows from strength to strength.

Key responsibilities

• Investigate new methodologies that can be applied to the production, purification, and QC of new proteins.
• Attend training in technical areas as required by the research projects.
• Produce well-written, compliant, and traceable laboratory notebooks and raw data files.
• Write and review protocols and SOPs when required.
• Contribute to the efficient running, cleanliness, and tidiness of the laboratory.

Selection criteria

Essential

• A degree in a relevant biological subject.
• Experience in recombinant protein expression using baculovirus-insect cell systems is necessary.
• Experience in operating AKTA FPLC systems.
• Experience in protein analysis.
• Self-motivated, technically competent, and capable of working independently in a laboratory.
• Keen to learn new techniques.
• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing demands whilst operating under pressure to deadlines.
• Good documentation and computer proficiency (Excel, PowerPoint, and Word).
• High-level of attention to detail.
• Ability to write factual reports.

Desirable

• Experience in recombinant protein expression using bacterial, mammalian and yeast expression systems.
• Sterile technique and experience in tissue culture.
• Experience in working with virus-like-particles (VLP), especially HBsAg.

Benefits

Compensation: 

• Competitive Salary depending on experience
• Discretionary Bonus(subject to performance)
• 30 days’ holiday per year plus bank holidays
• Pension: We automatically enrol you in a generous pension scheme with Royal London and will match your contributions up to 10% of salary 
• Community: complimentary breakfast/fresh fruit in the office regular team lunches/pizza; company bi-annual social events (Summer and Christmas) 
• Health & wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance; Excellent Personal Life Insurance; Employee Assistance programme 24/7 discounted subscriptions to various mental and physical health products and services including a gift box on your birthday 
• Family: Paid maternity, paternity, adoption, or shared parental leave, if you have been with us for at least 26 weeks 
• Personal development:Learning budget for books, training courses and conferences 
• Commuting:Member of cycle-to-work scheme