- Job Title: Group Leader – Synthetic Biology
- Salary: D.o.E. plus benefits
- Location: Oxford
- An Opportunity to Join a Company with Great Potential that is Developing Cutting Edge Synthetic Tools and a Growing International Reputation.
- Strategic Role with the Responsibility for the Management of a Developing Group, Assessment of New Technologies, and Strategic Input into the Direction of the company
Job Summary
This is a truly exciting opportunity to join a fast developing biotech who are pioneers in the use of synthetic biology and its application to transform the discovery, development and manufacture of biologics, cell & gene therapies. Based in state-of-the-art laboratories near Oxford they are at the cutting edge of research in this field, which has huge potential to deliver solutions for the production of complex, high value products. They are seeking a Group Leader to take responsibility for the team developing the mammalian cell lines for use in bioproduction systems.
The Company
The company are at the cutting edge of the exciting field of synthetic biology after developing their unique platform which enables them to offer solutions to the discovery, development and manufacture of biologics, cell & gene therapies. They currently offer a range of custom and platform services, specialising in DNA design, optimisation of protein and viral expression systems, and cell line development technologies.
A strong focus is placed on R&D activities and further developing platform technologies, as supported by the recent receipt of multiple grants awards from Innovate UK. Which will enable them to realise their potential and have a positive impact on the cell and gene therapy sectors.
The Opportunity
The Group Leader is an influential role leading a team of multi – disciplinary scientists developing processes in mammalian cells for the production of therapeutic proteins and viral vectors. You will be using your technical expertise of CRISPR and / or other gene editing tools to develop cell culture systems for the bioproduction of viral vectors such as lentivirus, AAV and retrovirus. As well as the manufacture of therapeutic proteins such as antibodies. Working on a varied range of projects tailored to the clients specific needs using your science to deliver these on time and to budget.
As the Group Leader you will be line managing a team of c8 scientists working on both internal and external research projects. With the responsibility for their line management, performance and training & development. Acting as their mentor to help develop their own skills and support their career progression.
This is a strategic role that needs a creative scientist who can bring on board new technologies, develop new methods using their cutting edge technologies, keep up to date with sector developments to ensure they stay at the forefront of research into this exciting and fast developing sector.
Desired Skills and Experience
They are looking for a PhD, or equivalent, qualified scientist in a relevant discipline with experience of the generation of cell lines for bio production. You will need to have experience of working with gene editing tools, experience of CRISPR is an advantage but not essential. Alongside this you will also need to have experience of managing teams both directly and in a matrix environment. As well as experience of overseeing the quality of work completed so that it meets regulatory requirements and company standards. With the ability to engage with external clients to provide updates, reports and scientific expertise.