Research Associate

Who we are:

Life, Reimagined

Constructive Bio is a VC-backed biotechnology startup based in Whittlesford, Cambridge. Our unique technology turns living cells into biofactories, creating sustainable new materials and therapeutics. With full control of the genetic sequence and code, we are exploring chemical space previously unreached by natural biology.

Constructive Bio is a spin out from Professor Jason Chin's laboratory at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge. Learn more about the Chin lab achievements here:

We secured $58 million Series A fundraising. Read more here:

What we're looking for:

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our R&D team. The ideal candidate will have experience in molecular biology and a strong desire to learn new wet lab techniques and contribute to the team culture. This role will be based within the Therapeutics Discovery team and will primarily focus on developing our internal therapeutics programs.

Responsibilities:

• Perform a variety of molecular biology techniques such as preparation of competent cells, PCR, cloning and transformations, colony/plasmid sequence verification
• Assist with the expression, purification, and analysis of recombinant proteins (in both bacterial and mammalian systems)
• Collaborate with the Therapeutics Discovery team supporting different projects as needed and learn a variety of different skills that could include, as an example, characterization of recombinant proteins by LCMS
• Troubleshoot and optimise experiments.
• Maintain detailed documentation of all work in line with Constructive Bio's lab book standards.
• Contribute to group discussions in group and departmental meetings

Requirements:

• BSc/MSc in relevant scientific discipline (Biology/ Biochemistry/ Bioengineering/ Cell Biology etc.).
• Wet lab experience in Molecular Biology techniques.
• Strong work ethic and keen interest in learning new bench skills.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively.
• Attention to detail, organizational skills, and desire to work in a fast paced environment.

Desirable skills:

• Familiarity with principles of protein engineering, synthetic biology or engineering incorporation of ncAA's
• Prior research experience working in an industry/start up setting
• Experience with biological assays e.g. ELISA
• Familiarity of methods used to produce recombinant proteins
• An understanding of the drug discovery process
• Interest and enthusiasm for developing novel biologic therapeutics

What's in it for you? Why work at Constructive Bio?

We are a small but rapidly growing team, with a vision to become the programmable biomolecules company and push the boundaries of what's possible between biology and chemistry. As an early joiner, you will have a unique opportunity to help shape our trajectory and make real impact from day one.

We offer:

• Newly fitted dedicated site in Whittlesford near Cambridge - on-site parking and regular trains to Cambridge, London and Norwich
• Competitive salary
• Employee share option plan
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Private health insurance
• Pension plan (matching up to 8%)
• Collaborative and pioneering environment, at the leading edge of synthetic genomics and engineered translation

We want to build a team with trust and respect for each other and create a culture of collaboration, openness, curiosity, and scientific excellence.

We are built on three principles:

• We imagine: We think big and plan our own path for success.
• We pioneer: We take action and grow together as one to break moulds.
• We deliver: We take ownership and work together to deliver excellence.

Constructive Bio is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Please note that we work in a dog friendly office.