Automation Scientist - Analytical job by Next

A pioneering company who are at the centre of the Cell & Gene Therapy sector are seeking an Automation Scientist to join their core R&D group based in Central London. This is a newly established team for which this role is a key part of and has the responsibility to programme, develop, implement and then run the new processes. There is a focus on automating their assays – PCR & Flow Cytometry for example – to then expand this across all areas of their R&D and Process Development functions.

The Role of Scientist:

As a Scientist you will contributing to the design of experimental programmes and then execute these in the laboratories. The focus of these will be on the programming the workflows for assays to transfer these to liquid handlers such as Biomek, Tecan, Hamilton Microlab, Gilson, and CyBio Felix for example. Working at the bench to develop the process flows to translate the assays to the automated platforms and troubleshoot any issues that arise. As this is a newly established team you will gain significant exposure that will help propel your career forwards.

Responsibilities includes:

Support the translation of research-based manufacturing & analytical processes to scalable clinical protocols through the development of automated processes.
Develop bespoke automated cell-based and molecular biology assays to liquid handling platforms and robotic methods.
Use programming ability for the transfer of processes and development of workflows.
Apply scientific expertise to troubleshoot automated and high throughput analytical and manufacturing processes.
Working in a cross departmental matrix environment to influence and contribute to project design and delivery.
Train colleagues in related departments on the use of automated processes.

This is an excellent opportunity where you will be able to apply your science in an innovative environment at the cutting edge for develop of Cell & Gene Therapies with excellent career potential.

Required Skills and Expertise:

MSc or PhD in relevant area is essential – molecular biology, cell biology, etc.
Expertise in the programming of workflows on liquid handlers and / or robots
Experience in the development of automating cell and molecular biology assays.
Experience of using liquid handling platforms, robotics e.g. tecan, Hamilton.
Experience of analytical methods such as flow cytometry, PCR (ddPCR),and ELISA.
Experience in the evaluation of new technologies and workflows to improve efficiency is advantageous.

Company Overview:

The company’s aim is to advance the cell & gene therapy sector to make the UK the place to commercialise these life changing therapies. They have the capabilities to take a therapy from the discovery phases, across the translational gap to the clinic and then through clinical trials to launch. Using their R&D expertise to achieve this along with their drive for innovation and continuously adopting the latest and most effective approaches. To completement their R&D efforts they have world class clinical operations, regulatory, health economics and market access expertise. Added to this they have developed a unique and highly successful GMP manufacturing facility based in Stevenage where collaborators can manufacture their therapies for clinical trial and commercial use.

They have a strong culture that is focused on collaborative and innovative working to deliver these life changing therapies to patients. As a company they offer excellent career development opportunities through their L&D programme that not only gives you the skills to advance your career but creates opportunities to take the step forwards to utilise them in a new position. Added to this they are continuing to expand as the demand for their expertise increases and they explore new areas of the sector.