Scientific Technician/Research Associate - Molecular Biology

Wild Bioscience Ltd; Abingdon; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge biotechnology firm in the UK is seeking a motivated Molecular Biology Technician or Research Associate to support their research and development projects. The role involves driving cloning workflows, conducting essential lab tasks, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams. Candidates should possess a relevant degree and hands-on experience with molecular cloning techniques. The company offers competitive benefits, including life cover, pension contributions, and flexible working opportunities, all in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Benefits

Opportunity to work with cutting edge science

Group life cover x 4 of base salary

Pension scheme with 5% Company contribution

Private medical insurance including dental and optical

Enhanced maternity and paternity leave

Regular company socials

Complimentary refreshments throughout the week

Team meals for networking and bonding

Training and development opportunities

Flexible working opportunities

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning techniques such as Golden Gate, Gibson Assembly, or Gateway.
• Strong quantitative skills for calculations associated with molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with database management and laboratory notebooks.

Responsibilities

• Support molecular biology projects, especially cloning and gene synthesis orders.
• Perform lab tasks including buffer/plasmid preparation and DNA/RNA extraction.
• Assist with microscopy and analysis of gene expression in plant tissue.
• Collaborate on research projects, troubleshooting, and writing SOPs.

Skills

Molecular cloning techniques

Data analysis

Attention to detail

Collaboration in multidisciplinary teams

Curiosity and initiative

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant science field

Tools

SnapGene

Primer3

Job description

At Wild Bio we are radically enhancing crops to feed the world sustainably and promote a wilder planet. Wild plants have had half a billion years to evolve natural solutions for thriving in almost every environment on Earth. Our proprietary genetics platform harnesses these wild innovations to enhance the world’s most important crops. Wild‑enhanced crops would simultaneously boost farm yields and promote gigaton‑scale carbon mitigation strategies. If you’re looking for a start‑up that has enormous potential for impact on growers, consumers, and the planet, please read on.

Wild Bio is a well‑funded, fast‑paced Oxford University spin‑out working from state‑of‑the‑art labs and offices at Milton Park, Oxfordshire. We are about to enter an exciting phase of growth and are looking for a driven and curious Molecular Biology Technician or Research Associate to join us and significantly contribute to delivering the change we believe in.

Our values:

• Curiosity: We fuel our desire to explore the unknown, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and sparking innovation. We ask questions, seek answers, and embrace lifelong learning.
• Community: We believe in the strength and support gained through collaboration and inclusion. As part of a global community, we nurture connections to drive meaningful impact for both people and planet.
• Courage: We face challenges head‑on, take calculated risks, and stand up for our beliefs. Our bravery propels us to take action, even in the face of adversity.

The role:

We are looking for a motivated and skilled Technician or Research Associate with a background in molecular biology to support our research and development initiatives. In particular, you’ll play a key role in driving our cloning workflows and gene synthesis pipelines. The ideal candidate is a team player who is eager to learn and challenge established approaches to improve our systems.

Detailed responsibilities:

• Support molecular biology projects, particularly cloning and placing gene synthesis orders.
• Perform essential lab tasks such as buffer and plasmid preparation, DNA/RNA extraction, and bacterial transformations.
• Assist with microscopy and analysis of reporters for gene expression in plant tissue.
• Manage data by collecting, organising, and analysing experimental results, and maintaining accurate records in our databases and electronic lab notebook.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on research projects, assisting with troubleshooting, and helping to write and review standard operating procedures.

Knowledge and skills:

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant science field or equivalent work experience.
• Hands‑on experience with molecular cloning techniques (e.g. Golden Gate, Gibson Assembly, or Gateway) is highly desirable.
• Experience using in silico tools for cloning (e.g. snapgene) and primer design (e.g. primer3) is desirable.
• Strong quantitative skills and ideally experience in calculations associated with common molecular biology techniques (e.g., buffer molarity, dilutions, and DNA/RNA concentrations).
• Exceptional attention to detail and a high level of care when following SOPs and entering data into databases.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a multi‑disciplinary environment, building relationships, and gaining trust through honesty, compassion, and authenticity.
• A curious and courageous mindset – someone who enjoys trying new things and taking initiative in a fast‑paced environment.
• A desire to develop your skills, share your knowledge, and support the growth of your teammates.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work with cutting edge science
• Group life cover x 4 of base salary
• Pension scheme with a 5% Company contribution
• Private medical insurance including dental and optical
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• Regular company socials
• Complimentary refreshments throughout the week
• Team meals, including breakfast on a Monday and lunch each Friday, creating opportunities for informal networking and team bonding
• Training and development opportunities
• Flexible working opportunities

Location

We’re headquartered in Milton Park, a business and technology park in Oxfordshire. This is an on‑site role, though we offer flexibility and hybrid working when possible.

The successful candidate will be required to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK.