Our client is an exciting start-up still in stealth mode, focusing on the immunotherapy market. Currently building out their cell sciences team, they have an exciting opportunity for an Associate Scientist to join their Cell Line Development team. As an Associate Scientist, you will bring existing experience in CHO cell line development, analytics and CRISPR.

Role Purpose:

The Associate Scientist will contribute to the execution of a cell line development pipeline aimed at target discovery. This role is part of a multidisciplinary team focused on developing the next generation of mammalian expression systems and cell lines to enable highly productive biopharmaceutical processes and cost-effective immunotherapeutics.

Key Responsibilities:

Perform CRISPR library screens in various cell lines to support target discovery.

Design, plan, and conduct cell culture experiments using small-scale models and high-throughput automated methods.

Maintain and culture biopharmaceutical-relevant cell lines, including CHO.

Analyze cell line attributes using molecular biology techniques.

Prepare and author SOPs, training documents, and risk assessments as project deliverables.

Train team members to ensure competency and data integrity.

Document research findings thoroughly and accurately in a lab book.

Present findings in group meetings and provide updates to project teams and internal stakeholders.

Contribute to routine laboratory maintenance, including equipment upkeep, cleaning schedules, and consumables management.

Share responsibility for out-of-hours cell culture maintenance.

Adhere to and promote laboratory health, safety, and quality procedures.

Assist in the preparation of risk assessments and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Maintain confidentiality regarding projects and protocols.

Stay updated on current technologies and scientific developments to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction.
Required Qualifications & Experience

BSc/MSc with 3+ years of relevant industry experience, or PhD with 1+ years of experience.

Hands-on experience with bioprocess-relevant cell lines such as CHO and HEK293, including cell culture, banking, and genotyping.

Proficiency in single-cell cloning techniques.

Familiarity with small-scale model systems.

Experience in molecular and cell biology assays, including flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA.

Knowledge of monoclonal antibody production.

Familiarity with CRISPR knockout screens, sgRNA design, and lentiviral vector design.

Strong skills in experimental design and troubleshooting.

Experience authoring SOPs, training documents, and risk assessments.

Proven ability to train team members to a high level of competency.

Demonstrated ability to plan and execute experiments within set timeframes.

Strong numeracy, computer proficiency, and communication skills.
Desirable Experience:

Experience with automation and high-throughput technologies applied to mammalian cell line development, such as Beacon, 96 deep-well plate systems, and Ambr15.

Experience working with 3rd-generation lentiviral plasmid systems in a CAT2.0 environment.

Proficiency in FACS.
Key Skills and Attributes:

Innovative mindset with a strong problem-solving ability.

Enthusiastic and proactive approach to work.

Results-driven with a commitment to high-quality outcomes.

Dependable and responsible, with the ability to multitask.

Strong time management and organizational skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

Effective team player in a growing, multidisciplinary environment.
This role offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of cell line development, contributing directly to advancements in biopharmaceutical manufacturing and target discovery.

£35k - £38k – Oxford