bit.bio is an award-winning spinout from the University of Cambridge. Our breakthrough technology combines synthetic and stem cell biology for the precise, efficient and consistent reprogramming of human cells used in research, drug discovery, and cell therapy. At bit.bio, we are passionate about engineering human cells that will enable the medicine of the future. To do this we need talented and curious people who want to make an impact on the future of science and therapeutics.

As a team of individuals, we value science, collaboration, openness, curiosity and creativity. We are united by trust and respect for each other.

Location: Babraham Research Park, Cambridge

Type: Full time, permanent

Start: Immediate

Salary: Competitive / Hours: 40 p/w

Lab based position

Your role in our team:

We are looking for a Scientist with a strong background in the use of iPSC-derived neurons in disease modelling and ideally experience with cellular reprogramming/forward programming strategies. In addition, we are looking for expertise in the characterisation of a variety of cell models for neurological diseases to support our growing portfolio of disease models in the field of neuroscience.

As a Scientist within Cell Type Development, you will become the specialist of CNS-specific disease models. This will be achieved based on your previous knowledge and experience, or through actively generating the background knowledge required to become so. Reporting to a Principal Scientist along with the Director of Cell Type Development, the candidate will work with a team of researchers as a focal point within the wider R&D department for the generation of new iPSC-derived disease models by using our opti-ox reprogramming technology.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• The development and execution of experimental assays to generate CNS-specific disease models of interest from human pluripotent stem cells, using cellular reprogramming approaches.
  
• Characterisation and phenotyping of CNS-relevant disease models by using a variety of assays. Design and troubleshoot experiments together with interpreting and reporting the data.
  
• Working with collaborators within bit.bio, and beyond, to characterise the disease models of interest generated.
  
• Facilitating technology transfer across teams within bit.bio.
  
• Development and execution of assays to support new wild type and disease model cells, including the performance experiments to analyse co-cultures of diverse CNS cell types.
  
• Contributing towards the completion of documentation and reports required during the Cell Type Development process and its milestone stage-gates.
  
• In collaboration with the leading Principal Scientist, support the cell line and experiment delivery to a wide variety of stakeholders.

You…

• Have a background within the neuroscience space that includes culturing of various iPSC-derived neuronal cell types, characterisation and functional assessments of CNS-related disease models.
• Ideally, have a background and experience in stem cell biology / cellular differentiation / cellular reprogramming.
• Are a good team player with an inquisitive mind and an ability to prioritise, organise, and be responsible for your own workload and that of others.
• Will be looking for a stimulating working environment where you can engage with different working groups to independently drive research projects and actively contribute to projects of others.

With essential experience in...

• A PhD in a relevant area of Biological Sciences (or equivalent experience) with proven experience in the academic or private sector, and a passion for problem solving.
• Strong practical and theoretical background in hESC or hIPSC culture and differentiation/reprogramming of neurological disease models.
• Strong practical and theoretical background in characterisation of iPSC-derived neuronal cultures – experiment planning, execution, and critical interpretation of generated data, and project delivery.
• Well-rounded practical experience and knowledge of cellular assays and cellular phenotyping (e.g. immunocytochemistry, MEA).
• The ability to manage and prioritise own workload.
• The ability to work collaboratively between teams and specific platforms.
• Working and performing in a highly collaborative environment.

and possibly...

• Well-rounded practical experience in molecular assays, molecular biology, and their downstream analysis (qRT-PCR, bulk and single cell RNA sequencing).
• Good knowledge and experience of modern RNA sequencing technologies.
• Experience and understanding of introducing novel workflows/processes and the development of screens for cellular differentiation.

More reasons to join us:

bit.bio provides a vibrant and dynamic work environment in an exciting, fast-moving time for biology. We work with cutting edge technologies and with our world-leading scientific advisory board. We conduct pioneering work with real-world impact.

We trust our people to make significant contributions early on with opportunities to be involved in projects that are key to the success and growth of our young company. We invest in people, creating opportunities for personal development in an inclusive multi-skilled team with ambitious goals that provide opportunities to learn on the job from each other.

Creativity and open minds are encouraged for everyone to contribute to the success of the company.

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