Ref.HRFJB25/0020
On-site: Cambridge, UK
Our Organization
FairJourney Biologics acquired IONTAS in 2020 which is now one of our key innovation and technology centres. This site is located at the Unity Campus, south of Cambridge, a growing hub for life sciences and technology organizations. FairJourney Biologics operates across three global sites (Porto – Portugal, Cambridge – UK, and San Francisco – USA), and is dedicated to discovering high-quality biologics drug candidates for our partners, providing solutions to their technical challenges and helping them bring life-changing medicines to patients. Our antibody discovery and engineering services have benefitted over 200 biotech and pharma partners worldwide. With more than 1,000 completed projects utilising a range of molecular formats and 20 clinical-stage molecules, we are internationally recognized for tackling novel and challenging discovery programs. Our expertise in Phage and Mammalian Display platforms enables us to push the boundaries of antibody discovery, driving innovation for next-generation therapeutics
The Role
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled scientist to join our Technology Unit, the research and development arm of FairJourney Biologics.
Successful candidates may be appointed at Scientist II or Senior Scientist level depending on experience, expertise, and leadership potential.
Scientist II roles at IONTAS are positioned in the upper tier of our scientific career ladder and are broadly equivalent to Senior Scientist roles in many external organisations. Those with substantial experience in leading technology development initiatives or managing scientific teams may be considered directly for the Senior Scientist title.
You will initially focus on leading the development of our single B cell antibody discovery platform, which leverages high-throughput single-cell screening tools such as FACS and microfluidics to isolate target-specific antibodies. You will also play a key role in driving broader technology development efforts, collaborating closely with Discovery & Engineering teams to advance our service offerings.
Key Responsibilities
* Design, establish, and optimise a single B cell discovery workflow using FACS and microfluidics.
* Lead the development and integration of novel antibody discovery workflows.
* Act as a subject matter expert for single B cell and antibody screening technologies.
* Mentor junior colleagues and potentially manage a small research team (Senior Scientist level).
* Ensure the seamless transfer of developed protocols to the Discovery & Engineering teams.
* Develop SOPs, training materials, and comprehensive documentation.
* Drive project planning and execution to meet development milestones.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams, partners, and vendors to align technical goals.
* Provide technical guidance on assay design, instrumentation, and data interpretation.
* Identify opportunities to enhance existing workflows and implement emerging technologies.
* Evaluate and adopt new methodologies that drive efficiency and innovation.
Data Interpretation & Communication
* Collect, analyse, and interpret scientific data to inform decision-making.
* Present findings and progress updates to senior management, partners, and at scientific conferences.
Your Profile
* PhD (or equivalent experience) in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related field.
* 4+ years hands-on experience in antibody drug discovery.
* Strong expertise in Flow Cytometry and multiparametric single-cell screening (e.g., 6–8 colour FACS panels).
* Deep understanding of immunology and B cell biology
* Proficient working with mammalian cell lines and primary immune cells (e.g., mouse or human B or T cells), including enrichment and culture techniques.
* In-depth understanding and practical experience in molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning (restriction-based, Gibson, or Golden Gate cloning), vector construction and plasmid preparation, gel electrophoresis and nucleic acid purification, and PCR.
* Experience performing a range of plate-based immunoassays, such as ELISA, ELISpot, MSD, AlphaLISA, FRET, HTRF or Luminex multiplex bead-based assays for the detection and quantification of antibodies or other proteins.
* Strong communication, collaboration, and time-management skills.
* Diligent with scientific documentation and electronic record keeping.
* Experience mentoring junior colleagues
* Experience in biotech, CRO, or pharmaceutical settings.
* Background in antibody display platforms (phage, mammalian, yeast).
* Familiarity with microfluidics-based screening platforms.
* Knowledge of antibody molecular biology (e.g., VH/VL amplification, cloning).
* Experience with automated liquid handling and high-throughput workflows.
* Exposure to project or people management (essential for Senior Scientist consideration).
We Offer
Why Join IONTAS/FairJourney Biologics?
Innovating the Future of Therapeutic Antibodies
IONTAS was co-founded in 2012 by John McCafferty, a pioneer of antibody phage display technology, which contributed to the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. By integrating phage and mammalian display expertise, we deliver high-affinity, developable antibodies that are shaping the future of drug discovery.
Be Part of a Global Team
By being part of the FairJourney Biologics family, you will be collaborating with teams in Porto, Cambridge, and San Francisco. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside world-class scientists, share insights across sites, and contribute to groundbreaking antibody discovery projects.
As the biopharmaceutical industry continues to evolve, there is a growing reliance on specialized CROs to drive innovation in antibody discovery. With an increasing number of biotech and pharmaceutical companies outsourcing their research, FairJourney Biologics is well positioned for long-term growth and expanding opportunities.
* Be part of a dynamic, motivated team at our expanding Cambridge site.
* Contribute to projects that impact partners, patients, and the broader scientific community.
* Drive your professional growth through diverse project exposure, technology ownership, and global collaboration.
* Attractive salary & benefits package, including pension and life insurance.
* Generous parental leave policies
* Located on Unity Campus, a growing science park offering good transport links, an on-site gym with personal training, a cafe and a vibrant social community.
A Culture That Empowers
We foster an inclusive, collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued. At FairJourney Biologics, your ideas and contributions matter—helping us transform antibody discovery and deliver next-generation therapeutics.
Applications must be submitted directly through our website before May 30th
Apply now
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