Scientist

One Nucleus Ltd; Town of Cambridge; On-site; AUD 48,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Momentous Therapeutics, a Cambridge-based biotechnology company, is seeking an enthusiastic early career scientist to gain hands-on experience in a laboratory environment and build a strong practical foundation in drug discovery.

You will contribute to day-to-day activities in our R&D labs, support assay development, and develop skills in cell biology, DNA production, protein purification and recombinant protein expression in mammalian and bacterial systems. UK right to work required.

Qualifications

• Science-related qualification; BSc background in cell biology, molecular biology or life sciences.
• Proactive, adaptable with a positive can-do attitude.
• Clear and effective communicator, collaborative team player.

Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day activities of laboratories and contribute to drug discovery efforts.
• Assist with assay development projects and gain exposure to cutting-edge techniques.
• Develop practical skills in cell biology, protein purification and recombinant protein production in mammalian and bacterial systems.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to lab safety, organisation and compliance.
• Support routine laboratory activities and equipment servicing as needed.

Skills

Cell biology

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Communication

Education

BSc or equivalent in life sciences

Job description

Momentous Therapeutics is an innovative Cambridge-based biotechnology company founded in 2022 to pioneer next-generation oncology treatments that unlock the full potential of the human immune system. By targeting a fundamental, ancient biochemical mechanism that acts as a natural brake on immune activation, the company develops pan-cancer therapies designed to work in synergy with existing treatments like checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cell therapies. Backed by key grants from Innovate UK and guided by a leadership team of seasoned life science executives and oncology experts, Momentous is positioning itself at the forefront of the UK’s biotech landscape, transforming how clinicians target and destroy resilient tumours. Wherever you work in our business, you will have the opportunity to bring new ideas to continuously improve our research and deliver real value.

Scientist Position - Early career

What you will be doing

This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and ambitious early career scientist looking to gain hands‑on experience in a laboratory environment and build a strong practical foundation in drug discovery within a biotechnology setting.

As a Scientist joining our Research & Development team, you will play an important role in supporting the day‑to‑day activities of our laboratories while developing practical expertise in Cell Biology. You will contribute to a range of research and laboratory activities, including supporting assay development projects, gaining exposure to cutting‑edge techniques, and developing a broad range of scientific and technical skills.

Working as part of a collaborative, matrixed team of experienced protein scientists and cell biologists, you will contribute to the delivery of the company’s scientific objectives. The role will provide opportunities to develop experience further in areas including:

• Developing practical Cell Biology skills and techniques.
• Supporting with assay development and optimisation projects.
• Applying molecular biology techniques for DNA production at different scales.
• Development in protein purification and related techniques.
• Gaining exposure to recombinant protein production using mammalian and bacterial expression systems.
• Supporting laboratory operations and research activities.

We are looking for a highly motivated, organised, and detail‑oriented individual with a genuine interest in biotechnology and drug discovery. A degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life science discipline would be desirable.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early‑career scientist who is keen to develop their technical expertise, broaden their scientific skill set and gain valuable experience working within an innovative R&D environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Research & Development team in the development, optimisation, and implementation of cell‑based assays to enable the functional screening of compounds.
• Perform a range of laboratory‑based assays, including plate‑based assays such as proliferation and ELISA, Western blotting, and flow cytometry‑based assays.
• Work collaboratively with senior scientists to support experimental planning, execution, data collection, and interpretation.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of experimental work, results, and observations in accordance with established laboratory practices.
• As you work contribute to maintaining high standards of laboratory organisation, cleanliness, safety, and compliance.
• As part of the team support with routine laboratory activities, which could include liquid nitrogen management and refilling, glassware washing, and the collection and appropriate handling of clinical and chemical waste.
• Where required assist with the coordination and servicing of laboratory equipment, including maintaining accurate equipment records and supporting routine checks and maintenance activities.

What you can bring

We are looking for applicants that have the following:

• A Science related qualification; BSC academic background, or equivalent, in cell biology, molecular biology, or other life sciences field.
• Proactive, adaptable, and enthusiastic to learn with a positive “can-do” attitude.
• Clear and effective communicator, friendly and able to collaborate well.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a growing scientific team – Join a collaborative and supportive R&D team where your work will contribute to meaningful scientific research and the development of innovative approaches to drug discovery.
• Grow your career – Develop your technical and scientific skills through hands‑on experience, training, and support from experienced colleagues, with opportunities to grow as the company and your career progresses.
• A welcoming and inclusive environment – We value diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. We are committed to creating a supportive, friendly environment where everyone can contribute and thrive.
• A great location – Based in Harston, you will work in a peaceful setting surrounded by green space and lovely countryside walks, while remaining within easy reach of Cambridge.

Note

Must have UK right to work. Direct applicants only, no agencies please.