Job Description
This is an exciting new position for a motivated individual looking for a dynamic environment to grow and map their career in the biotechnology industry. You will join a passionate and innovative team dedicated to improving the accuracy of diagnostic tests.
Company Information
Apto-Gen’s mission is the improvement of DNA and RNA detection for more accurate diagnoses by bringing bespoke, high-quality molecular biology reagents to the healthcare and biotechnology markets.
Our market knowledge and technical expertise enable us to develop customised enzymes and reagents for direct integration into our customers’ test devices and assays to improve detection and identification of biological contaminants, genetic disorders, and infectious diseases. We identify with and operate to our customers’ quality systems and design requirements, to offer market-leading products.
Apto-Gen is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Role Overview
Research Assistant shall provide support to our R&D team by contributing to the development of Apto-Gen products and critical internal and release test assays. This role is laboratory based, with the successful candidate reporting directly to one of our Senior Scientists.
Responsibilities
* Work with the R&D team on the development of molecular biology products, both for sale to individual clients, and to launch into the Apto-Gen catalogue range
* Support the assay development activity in R&D, including new product verification and release tests, and improvements to overall R&D test designs
* Efficiently manage multiple projects with appropriate allocation of time, and present progress to the R&D team
* Design primer sets for disease and species identification panels to enhance product development projects
* Identify and communicate the latest technological advances in the field to the R&D team
* Participate in daily operations and general housekeeping duties within laboratory areas
* Maintain accurate laboratory records with regular project reporting in line with our ISO 13485 Quality Management System
Requirements:
* Degree (e.g. BSc/MSc) in a relevant life science discipline (e.g. biochemistry, molecular biology)
* Experience in real-time PCR (qPCR) and endpoint PCR design
* Proven ability to interpret data in a logical and understandable form
* Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to adapt quickly to changes in project requirements
* Proven track record of project delivery meeting challenging deadlines
* Highly organised and self-motivated individual with good attention to detail
* Strong verbal and written communication and numeracy skills
Desirable
* Laboratory experience in the life science industry
* Experience of working within an ISO 9001 or 13485 environment
* Experience in assay development and optimisation
* Understanding of ambient temperature stabilisation and lyophilisation technologies
* Working knowledge of NGS processes and applications
Please submit your CV and accompanying covering letter with your application. Please note, applications will be reviewed as received. The application deadline will be brought forward when a suitable candidate is accepted.