Molecular Biologist

Location: Cambridge

Contract: Full-time and permanent

Sector: Biotechnology / Drug Discovery

Salary: £25,000 - £31,000 depending on experience

Our client is an innovative biotechnology company based outside of the centre of Cambridge. They have built a platform to synthesis DNA which provides exciting possibilities for ensuring cheaper, faster and more accurate DNA / gene constructs than traditional plasmid-based methods. In a key phase of their growth, our client is looking to onboard experienced Scientists in the field of molecular biology and DNA synthesis on a full-time and permanent basis.

The Opportunity

This is an opportunity for a Scientist with a BSc or MSc and additional industry, or post-graduate experience in a molecular biology setting. If you are looking for the next step in your career then this opportunity could be for you. As a Scientist within the molecular biology team you will be responsible for:

* Conducting a wide range of molecular biology based experiments in relation to Synthetic DNA, mRNA synthesis (in vitro transcription) and gene expression.

* Use of techniques including: DNA/RNA extraction, E.coli culture, DNA quantification, DNA cloning, primer design, PCR, plasmid purification, transformation, gel electrophoresis etc

* Plan, refine and execute experiments which align with overall project plans.

* Work individually and collaboratively within the R&D teams.

* Play an active role in departmental meetings and development meetings.

* Keep a comprehensive and up-to-date record of experiments and data/results

Skills and Experience Needed

The ideal candidate will have the following:

* BSc/MSc in a biological discipline + industry experience in general molecular biology. (essential - straight MSc graduates will be considered and equivalent experience welcome)

* Expertise in several of the following molecular biology techniques (mRNA synthesis, synthetic DNA, primer design, gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE, transfection, bacterial cell culture (E.coli), plasmid amplification, DNA cloning, PCR, plasmid purification, Golden Gate assembly, Gibson assembly etc) (essential)

* Experience in Primer and Sequence Design (desired)

* Experience in DNA assembly i.e Golden Gate and Gibson (desired)

* Experience in troubleshooting and developing laboratory protocols (desired)

* Excellent communication skills (essential)

* Existing right to work in the UK (essential)

The Package

As an up-and-coming Cambridge Biotech, our client is able to offer a competitive salary, progression options and benefits package including private pension and private health insurance