Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist, Molecular Biology & Protein Biochemistry

ZipRecruiter; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job description

Job Description

Description:

At Merida Biosciences, we are pioneering true precision medicines for antibody-driven diseases. We specifically target pathogenic antibodies and their cellular sources with bespoke Fc biotherapeutics engineered to selectively and completely eliminate the root causes of autoimmune and allergic diseases, and to achieve deep, durable responses while preserving essential immunity. We are looking for passionate individuals to join our mission to transform treatment paradigms across the spectrum of antibody-driven diseases.

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist to join our Discovery Biologics team. This role will focus on applying molecular biology, cell biology, and protein engineering expertise to drive discovery and development programs. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in molecular cloning, recombinant protein/antibody expression, purification, and characterization. You will independently design and execute laboratory experiments while collaborating with internal and external teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform plasmid DNA isolation, quantification, and sequencing analysis to support protein production platform.
• Optimize and maintain transient transfection platforms (CHO and HEK) for recombinant protein/antibody expression.
• Purify recombinant proteins/antibodies using affinity, ion exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography, and assess purity/integrity/functionality using SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, and analytical SEC chromatography.
• Troubleshoot and optimize protein expression and purification workflows using scientific literature and prior experience.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, preparing technical reports, presentations, and manuscripts.
• Adhere to safety guidelines while working with hazardous/infectious (BSL-2) materials.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Biology, Bioassay, and Pharmacology teams to support pipeline programs.
• Maintain detailed protocols and data entries in an electronic lab notebook (Benchling) per company policies.
• Follow LIMS/inventory management protocols to ensure accurate tracking and storage of plasmids and recombinant proteins.
• Design and generate constructs/plasmids for protein production using software such as SnapGene, Geneious, or similar tools.
• Maintain and optimize in-house molecular cloning platform (e.g., Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate, TA cloning) for plasmid construction and recombinant protein/antibody production.

Requirements:

• MS with 2+ years or BS with 5+ years of relevant experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Expertise in plasmid design, cloning, and transformation for bacterial and mammalian applications.
• Proficiency in cloning software such as SnapGene, Geneious, or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression in mammalian systems.