Cell Biologist (Senior Scientist & Principal Scientist)

We are working in partnership with a start-up biotech firm, supporting them in the growth of their scientific team. They're actively seeking Senior and Principal level Scientists to join their Cell Biology team.
Role Summary
In this role you will be a core part of the Biology team, designing assays to examine the binding of TCR bispecific molecules to cells, the activation of T cells and T-cell mediated killing. Ideally, the applicant should be able to make lentivirus and conduct lentiviral transduction of cell lines and primary cells. This will include techniques such as cell culture, flow cytometry, T cell activation and killing assays, mammalian cell transfection/transduction and microscopy.
Key Deliverables
Working proactively with the team to develop effective in vitro testing strategies prioritised to the needs of the Biology group; collaborating effectively with other research functions.
Effectively design and conduct experimental work to align with Company priorities and meet scientific timelines, report results succinctly and effectively.
Design, conduct, analyse experiments to test safety and efficacy of soluble TCR bispecific molecules generated by the Protein Engineering team.
Dissect molecular mechanisms of T cell activation and T cell mediated killing by soluble TCR bispecific molecules, including establishing and deploying suitable assays and sourcing required cell lines, human organoids and primary human cells and tissue samples.
Cloning recombinant DNA molecules.
Making lentiviral supernatants.
Transduction of cell lines and primary cells with lentivirus.
Support an in vivo testing strategy via an outsourced model as required.
Work collaboratively with the Protein Engineering and CMC teams to guide optimisation and development of soluble TCRs.
Effectively design and conduct experimental work to align with Company priorities and meet scientific timelines, report results succinctly and effectively.
Present scientific findings and summary conclusions to your department, project team and the company leadership team.
Drive innovation and continuous improvement within the Cell Biology team, implementing novel technologies, workflows, and methodologies to enhance productivity and accelerate the drug development process
Experience & Qualifications Required
Familiarity with a range of cell and molecular biology techniques, such as flow cytometry analysis, designing and executing recombinant DNA sub-cloning strategies, making lentiviral supernatants, lentiviral transduction, T cell assays.
Direct hands-on laboratory experience in testing and developing of biologics including the assessment of the biological impact of their engagement with therapeutic targets.
(Desired but not essential) Experience in the design and oversight of in vivo experiments.
Experience leading projects, overseeing the experimental strategy and co-ordinating the work of other team members.
A PhD in a relevant biological subject with or without post-doctoral experience in academia and with substantial subsequent biotechnology and/or pharmaceutical industry experience in R&D teams.
(Desired) Experience managing a team of scientists.
(Desired) Experience leading in a matrix environment.
Ability to independently lead programmes to advance the company’s goals, review competing priorities and recommend strategies to advance the programme.
Working proactively with the team to develop effective strategies prioritised to the needs of the Biology group; collaborating effectively with other functions.
Inclusive, collaborative, and thrives in a team environment with a flexible approach to working.
Strong communication skills with the confidence and judgement to challenge appropriately.
Demonstrable problem- solving ability, creative thinking and be pro-active in driving the project forwards