Research Associate Screening/Discovery (12 month Maternity Cover)

Company Overview

Constructive Bio is a VC backed biotechnology startup based in Whittlesford, Cambridge. Our unique technology turns living cells into biofactories, creating sustainable new materials and therapeutics. We are exploring chemical space previously unreached by natural biology.

Overview of role

Research Associate/Technician - 12 month maternity cover contract in the Engineered Translation team. You will support our routine tRNA display pipeline and participate in aminoacyl tRNA selection experiments and pipeline optimization.

Responsibilities

Perform aminoacyl tRNA synthetase/tRNA molecule selection experiments for the discovery of novel, non canonical building blocks. Optimize the display process and contribute to the discovery pipeline. Discuss and execute experiments to improve the pipeline.

Qualifications

• BSc/MSc in Biological Sciences or related field.
• Hands on experience with molecular biology and microbiology techniques: DNA isolation, PCR & qPCR, Gibson assembly, Golden Gate, restriction digestion, RNA isolation, aseptic technique, strain archiving.
• Ability to execute protocols meticulously.
• Clear communication and presentation skills.
• Excellent record keeping.

Desirable Skills

• Industrial biotechnology pipeline experience.
• Protein engineering mutagenesis library design.
• Familiarity with PyMol or similar visualisation software.
• Real time PCR.
• Bacterial plate based reporter expression assays.
• Illumina sequencing library preparation.
• Experience with genetic code expansion projects and current literature.

Benefits

• Newly fitted dedicated site in Whittlesford with on site parking and regular trains to Cambridge, London and Norwich.
• Competitive salary.
• Employee share option plan.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Private health insurance.
• Pension plan (matching up to 8%).
• Collaborative pioneering environment in synthetic genomics and engineered translation.

Constructive Bio is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.