Scientific Officer

This ambitious start-up company are seeking to appoint a Scientific Officer with considerable experience (~2 years) in delivering RNAscope staining assays to accredited standards. Working independently will be a key aspect of the role as is the ability to troubleshoot and design experimental approaches.

A key feature of the post will be to project manage work activities to co-ordinate with other established project team members to ensure projects are delivered on time and budget. Proven good interpersonal skills and organisational ability are essential qualities required for the role. Experience working within an academic research and commercial environment would be advantageous.

The purpose of the position is to perform RNAscope, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent staining assays including multiplex staining assays for their Histoplex clients using a combination of standard and custom programs, designed and performed on robotic staining platforms or manually to accredited standards; provide business development and project management support and liaise with expert contractors. Communicate with existing and potential customers and to contribute to the development of new and improved tissue molecular probing techniques.

Main Responsibilities:

- To design and perform RNAscope cell and tissue assays using both manual and robotic staining platforms. To independently determine optimal assay conditions for diverse sample fixation and processing conditions. Assay troubleshooting.
- Independently perform complex fluorescent and colourimetric co-localisation staining assays. Contribute to the development of improved methods and techniques.
- Working in collaboration with the their Histoplex team to implement the work practices, SOPs and documentation for accreditation and ensure the systems involved in maintaining MHRA GCLP requirements are adhered to.
- To participate fully in business development activities relating to potential products and services including facilitating production of promotional material, social media and web content. Scheduling meetings.
- Discuss with colleagues, contractors and clients the assays involved, provide feedback and results. Troubleshoot and optimize tissue staining assays, advising on alternate strategies to obtain required results. Provide completed assays that are of publication/suitable quality.
- To perform routine laboratory maintenance, ordering and ensuring reagent stock levels are maintained.
- Produce detailed SOPs; keep accurate records, produce chain of custody documentation and record cost recovery financial transactions.
- Provide microscopic imaging support as required.

This will be a 1 year fixed term position in the first instance.