Research Assistant, Cell Engineering & Process Development (CEPD)

bit.bio is an award-winning spinout from the University of Cambridge. Our breakthrough technology combines synthetic and stem cell biology for the precise, efficient and consistent reprogramming of human cells used in research, drug discovery, and cell therapy. At bit.bio, we are passionate about engineering human cells that will enable the medicine of the future. To do this we need talented and curious people who want to make an impact on the future of science and therapeutics.

As a team of individuals, we value science, collaboration, openness, curiosity and creativity. We are united by trust and respect for each other.

Location: Babraham Research Park, Cambridge

Type: Full time, permanent

Start: Immediate



Salary: Competitive / Hours: 40 p/w

Lab based position

Your role in our team:

The Research Assistant's primary objective is to plan, perform and evaluate genome engineering experiments to generate targeted HiPSC and mammalian cell lines. Focused on supporting the cell engineering platform to provide provision of a robust, state of the art, in-house service. This includes development of said platform and to help co-ordinate the timely generation of deliverable reagents and the implementation of new technologies and SOPs.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Design of gene knock-out, knock-in and strategies using contemporary gene editing technologies (e.g. CRISPR-Cas9).
• Execution of contemporary gene editing technologies, primarily in human iPSCs - including sample tracking QC and data interpretation.
• Monitor key areas of day-day laboratory activities - ensure the smooth running of the teams activities and identify opportunities to improve or areas of risk.
• Stay up to date with key aspects of genetic engineering, vector assembly and novel cell line engineering processes through internal and external training/seminar opportunities.
  
  

You…

• Will be degree qualified in Biological Sciences (or equivalent experience) and with proven practical experience in either (a) molecular biology or, (b) gene editing in human ES/iPS cells.
• Will have the ability to prioritise, organise and be responsible for own workload.
• Will have excellent written and oral communication skills.
  
  

With essential experience in...

• Demonstrable experience of mammalian cell culture.
• Good theoretical knowledge and practical experience of either (a) PCR, RT-PCR, Western blotting, nucleic acid extraction and molecular cloning, or (b) genome engineering in mammalian cell lines.
• Demonstrable understanding of genotyping strategies and interpretation of genotyping results.
• Good theoretical understanding and knowledge of modern gene editing techniques and their applications.
• Proven ability to communicate research/project outputs, through written or oral communication.
• Track record of optimising SOPs/protocols including the experimental design and empirical assessment of alterations to, or troubleshooting of, current SOPs.
  
  

and possibly...

• Proven record of contributing to research articles and publications.
  
  

More reasons to join us:

bit.bio provides a vibrant and dynamic work environment in an exciting, fast-moving time for biology. We work with cutting edge technologies and with our world-leading scientific advisory board. We conduct pioneering work with real-world impact.

We trust our people to make significant contributions early on with opportunities to be involved in projects that are key to the success and growth of our young company. We invest in people, creating opportunities for personal development in an inclusive multi-skilled team with ambitious goals that provide opportunities to learn on the job from each other.

Creativity and open minds are encouraged for everyone to contribute to the success of the company.

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