Scientist - Molecular Biology

Nuclera; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotech company in the UK is looking for an experienced lab-based researcher. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology, protein expression, and a collaborative spirit. Responsibilities include designing and executing experiments, engaging in scientific discussions, and delivering high-quality results. Applicants should have an MSc or PhD in a relevant field and 2-4 years of industry experience. This on-site role offers a competitive benefits package and the chance to work in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

Company bonus scheme of 5%

Share option incentive scheme

Life insurance

Private medical insurance

25 days' annual leave

Enhanced pension contributions

Investment in professional development

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2-4 years industry experience for MSc graduates.
• Experience with common molecular biology techniques required.
• Collaborative team player with a positive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute PCR and protein expression experiments.
• Engage in scientific discussions for product development.
• Report and analyze experimental results.

Skills

Molecular biology

Protein expression

Communication skills

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

MSc or PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field

Tools

SnapGene

Benchling

Vector NTI

Job description

Nuclera is a venture-backed biotech company headquartered in Cambridge, UK with significant operations in Boston, USA. Nuclera's mission is to accelerate discovery by enabling rapid, easy access to functional proteins essential for drug discovery research. Our eProtein Discovery™ benchtop system accelerates protein expression and purification optimization in research labs.

This is a lab-based role within a group central to Nuclera's technology development program that will be conducted in close collaboration with colleagues from other groups in the company. A key aspect of this role will be to support development and optimization of new capabilities of our platform.

The role would suit a candidate with excellent communication and organization skills, with a drive for working in a fast-paced biotech environment and a track record of execution and teamwork. Experience in molecular biology, protein expression and characterisation is essential.

This role will be based in the Cambridge, UK site and is on-site in the lab.

About The Role

• Design, execute, and troubleshoot PCR, DNA assembly and protein expression with guidance from senior members of the group
• Able to work on multiple projects in parallel
• Actively engage in scientific discussion within the group and across groups to contribute to robust product development
• Follow SOPs to independently execute and analyze experiments
• Report results in a timely manner and maintain good laboratory practices.

Requirements

Essential

• MSc or PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field
• 2-4 years of relevant industry experience for MSc graduates, or at least 1 year of industry experience for PhD holders
• Track record of delivering robust data and high-quality results within tight timelines
• Solid understanding of recombinant DNA technology and extensive experience with gene expression in prokaryotic systems
• Experience with common molecular biology techniques, including PCR, DNA assembly using PCR and Gibson assembly, gene cloning and agarose gel electrophoresis
• Extensive experience of nucleic acid manipulation (DNA and RNA) for assay and application development (e.g. NGS library prep, NGS application development, synthetic biology applications or expression construct design)
• Proficiency with DNA analysis software such as SnapGene/Benchling/Vector NTI
• Experience with common protein expression and purification techniques, including affinity purification, SDS‑PAGE gel electrophoresis, protein quantification
• A collaborative team player with a positive can‑do attitude
• Strong problem solving capabilities, clear communication and presentation skills
• Self‑motivated interest in Nuclera's technology

Desirable

• Previous working experience in the pharmaceutical, CRO, and/or biotechnology industry would be advantageous
• Understanding the principles of cell‑free protein synthesis technologies
• Expression and purification of antibodies in E.coli/mammalian cells
• Some knowledge of protein assays, characterisation and functional properties (e.g. solubility, aggregation properties, activity)

Benefits

What we offer

• Company bonus scheme of 5%
• Share option incentive scheme
• Life insurance
• Private medical insurance and cash plan
• 25 days' annual leave + Bank Holidays
• Enhanced employer's pension contributions
• Enhanced maternity and paternity Leave
• Investment in professional development and learning
• Fresh fruit, tea, coffee, and snacks in the office
• Organised summer events for staff