Scientist - Target Discovery

ZipRecruiter; England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A biotechnology firm is seeking a Scientist for Target Validation and Drug Screening in Cambridge. You will drive advancements for rare neurological disorders, perform drug screenings, and develop cell-based assays. A PhD in biological science with industry experience is required, alongside strong skills in mammalian cell culture and CRISPR methodologies. This role offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of innovative treatments.

Qualifications

• Proven industry experience in early target discovery and validation.
• Strong mammalian cell culture skills.
• Practical experience with CRISPR-based perturbation modalities and assay development.

Responsibilities

• Prioritise and triage drug and CRISPRi screen hits using literature and datasets.
• Formulate testable hypotheses and design validation cascades.
• Develop and qualify robust cell-based assays aligned to target biology.

Skills

High-content imaging

Flow cytometry

qPCR

Mammalian cell culture

CRISPR-based perturbation

Education

Relevant biological science degree, ideally a PhD

Job description

Job Description

ROLE OVERVIEW

Our client, an innovative Biotechnology business, is seeking a Scientist - Target Validation and Drug Screening to join their team based in Cambridge. As the Scientist - Target Validation and Drug Screening, you will play a pivotal role in advancing treatments for rare neurological disorders, including neuro-oncology.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Your duties as the Scientist - Target Validation and Drug Screening will be varied; however, the key duties and responsibilities are as follows:

1. Prioritise and triage drug and CRISPRi screen hits using literature, pathway analyses, public datasets, and internal context.
2. Formulate testable hypotheses and design validation cascades with clear go/no-go criteria and timelines. Execute orthogonal genetic validation.
3. Develop and qualify robust cell-based assays aligned to target biology and mechanism of action in 2D systems (3D). Define and implement control strategies, plate and sample randomisation, and batch-effect controls.
4. Integrate genetic and pharmacological perturbations to probe mechanisms and pathway placement.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS:

To be successful in your application for this role as the Scientist - Target Validation and Drug Screening, we are looking to identify the following on your profile and past history:

1. Relevant degree in a biological science, ideally a PhD, with proven industry experience in early target discovery and validation.
2. Proficiency in high-content imaging, flow cytometry, qPCR, or equivalent molecular assays. Strong mammalian cell culture skills.
3. A working knowledge and practical experience with CRISPR-based perturbation modalities and cell-based assay development.

Key Words:

Scientist / Target Validation / Drug Screening / CRISPR / Cell-based Assays / Biotechnology / Cambridge / Neuro-oncology / Genetic Epilepsies / Neuropathic Pain / Demyelinating Diseases

Hyper Recruitment Solutions Ltd (HRS) is an Equal Opportunities employer. We welcome applications from anyone who meets the role requirements. HRS exclusively supports the Life Science sectors, combining recruitment expertise with scientific knowledge to help you advance your career.