Research Scientist (interim)
Duration - 6 months (plus)
Location - Slough, UK
Inside IR35
Make your mark for patients.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and innovative
Research Scientist
to join us in our
Antibody & Novel Therapeutics
group, based in our research site in
Slough, UK
.
About the role
Working in the Antibody and Novel Therapeutics group, you will be part of an innovative multi-disciplinary team. You will support and expand our capabilities in exploratory work and in vitro assay development in support of in vivo nucleic acid sciences. Through exposure to a broad range of projects and techniques, you will learn about the drug discovery process, and enhance your drug-hunting mindset with direct application for the benefit of patients. You will be given opportunities for training, continual learning and development and will be encouraged to contribute to implementing new technologies and processes.
Who you'll work with
You will be fully supported by experienced scientists to ensure successful integration into our UK Research community.
You will collaborate with different teams throughout the organisation and on various research projects to support drug discovery.
What you'll do:
* Explore and evaluate nucleic acid modalities
, including DNA, RNA, and oligonucleotides both as critical research tools and potential therapeutic agents.
* Investigate non-viral delivery systems
, such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), to enhance delivery to immune cells and other relevant targets.
* Design and execute cell-based assays
in cell lines and primary cells to assess the efficacy and delivery of nucleic acid-based modalities.
* Analyse experimental data
, troubleshoot technical challenges, and contribute to data interpretation and reporting.
* Support innovation
by contributing to the evaluation of emerging technologies for target validation and therapeutic development.
* Present findings
in team and departmental meetings, contributing to scientific discussions and decision-making.
* Collaborate across functions
and with external partners to help advance drug discovery programs from early research through preclinical development.
Essential
* Minimum of BSc (or equivalent) in cell biology, immunology, or related fields.
* Experienced in cell culture including primary immune cell subsets.
* Hands-on experience with nucleic acid technologies (e.g., ASO, siRNA, mRNA or CRISPR) and familiarity with delivery systems such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) or viral carriers.
* Familiar with essential molecular and cellular techniques including flow cytometry, qPCR, imaging.
* Strong collaboration and communication skills across multidisciplinary teams.
* Highly motivated and committed to exceed goals.
Desirable
* PhD or MSc with industry experience preferred
* Familiarity with conjugation methods and lipid nanoparticles (LNP) formulation concepts is advantageous.
* Skilled in designing and executing cell-based assays, with a strong understanding of data analysis and troubleshooting.