Job Description
JOB TITLE: Research Associate - Molecular & Synthetic Biology
LOCATION: Onsite - Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, UK (CB21 6GS)
SCHEDULE: Standard Working Hours
DURATION: 11-Month Contract
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: PAYE Only
PAY: 13-15 £ per hour
Job Overview
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the cutting edge of R&D in the biopharmaceutical industry with a globally leading CDMO. The role is highly lab-focused and involves developing novel molecular and synthetic biology constructs, performing mammalian cell culture, and supporting high-throughput DNA assembly and analytical workflows. The successful candidate will also play a key role in maintaining laboratory standards and supporting ongoing R&D projects.
Key Responsibilities
* Perform 90-100% lab-based work, focused on generating new plasmids for expression of complex biological molecules.
* Conduct DNA sequencing processing and assessment.
* Culture mammalian cell lines in flasks and small-scale bioreactors.
* Perform analytical procedures, including high-throughput protein quantification and related assays.
* Prepare media and feeds from basal components.
* Write clear, high-quality technical reports and present findings to the R&D team.
* Maintain electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) to a high standard.
* Support routine laboratory maintenance, equipment upkeep, and organization.
* Demonstrate confidence with computers and a willingness to learn laboratory automation.
* Perform additional duties as required to support project and team needs.
Education Requirements
* BSc or MSc in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related biology-based discipline (required).
Experience & Skills
* Entry-level candidates with a strong academic or early industry background are encouraged to apply.
* Foundational knowledge of molecular biology techniques (required).
* Practical experience with mammalian cell culture techniques (preferred).
* Exposure to DNA assembly, plasmid generation, or protein expression workflows (preferred).
* Strong attention to detail, documentation, and teamwork skills.
* Computer literate.
* Good laboratory practice.
...