Associate Scientist - Cell Engineering

Oxford Genetics, a leader in synthetic biology, is a specialised contract research organisation offering services to support the discovery, development and production of biologics, with a particular focus on viral vectors for gene therapy applications. A unifying theme across the portfolio is expertise in DNA design, expression system optimisation, cell line development and engineering of viral delivery systems. We are located within purpose-fitted laboratories at the Oxford Science Park, just South of Oxford.  

We are in a phase of rapid expansion and are seeking highly motivated and enthusiastic scientists and engineers to join the team and help facilitate the next stage of our development as a company. We aim to be both innovative and entrepreneurial in everything we do – join us and contribute to this exciting journey! 

Role Overview:

The Associate Scientist – Cell Engineering will be involved in a range of internal platform development and commercial projects, predominantly focused on establishing stable viral packaging cell lines. OG has a number of on-going programmes in this area, and multiple government supported grant awards, which the recipient will contribute towards. This will be a predominantly lab-based position and will work closely with the Group Leader and Scientist colleagues within the group to define and design projects. An ability to rapidly assimilate information and to learn new techniques and approaches is essential, as is high-level attention to detail and scientific rigour. 

Key Responsibilities:

•    Work closely with colleagues and collaborators to define project goals and deliverables, in line the planned project objectives
•    To maintain standards in the laboratories, and to contribute to ensuring best practice
•    Provide project summaries and reporting, as required
•    To help in establishing SOPs and methods, and in utilizing the internal LIMS system
•    Promote and suggest implementation of new methods, technologies and processes 
•    Support line manager in ensuring smooth running of the group.
•    To adhere strictly to established quality standards, essential for on-going activities
•    Provide accurate record keeping at all times

Minimum Qualifications Or Experience Needed:

•    BSc. Or MSc. with relevant laboratory experience, ideally in a commercial/industry setting. 

Preferred Skills and Abilities:

Training will be provided as necessary, however experience in the following areas would be advantageous:

•    Standard mammalian cell culture techniques and methods for both adherent and suspension cell lines 
•    Production and analysis of stable mammalian cell lines
•    Generation and engineering of viral vectors, including lentivirus, retrovirus and AAV
•    Use of gene editing tools (including CRISPR) for cell engineering and screening purposes 
•    Flow cytometry and cell sorting
•    Use of robotic liquid handling and automation systems
•    An engineering mindset – good ability to utilize statistical approaches to optimize processes and procedures

Job Type: Permanent
Hours: full time or 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £18,000 – 28,000 per annum

Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK without sponsorship.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

Please apply online with your CV and covering letter stating ref no 0140.

Please check your email for confirmation that your application has been received and to follow further instructions if applicable.