Research Scientist II - Synthetic Biology & Microbial Fermentation (UK)

Written By Chris Kaye

We are currently expanding our R&D team located at our laboratory in Stevenage (UK)

  • We are seeking an experienced Scientist to support new and existing product development as the company expands its portfolio. This role will be primarily laboratory-based. The ideal applicant would have worked in the past in microbial strain construction, fermentation, and/or Synthetic Biology. She or he would be able to work with minimum supervision and guidance. The job will be undoubtedly fast-paced with parallel objectives on-going, but with exciting progress along the way.

    Key duties and responsibilities of the role

    • Independently lead a research project for product development

    • Microbial strain construction

    • Optimization of microorganism fermentation

    • Protein engineering and development of biochemical assays to measure enzyme activity

    • Metabolite and/or protein purification and characterization

    • Providing training and advice to other scientists

    • Daily detailed data recording in company’s electronic notebook

    • Detailed recording, independent analysis and interpretation of data and results, drawing out of conclusions and strategic recommendations

    • Writing and reviewing SOPs, reports and other related documentation

    • Presenting results to the team to update on project’s progress

    • Contribute to Axitan’s growing product portfolio

    • Remaining up-to-date on relevant methods and scientific literature

    Required knowledge, skills and abilities for this role

    • Strong practical knowledge on Molecular Biology methods, including plasmid construction, microbial transformation methods and genotyping

      • Practical knowledge of high-throughput cloning methods

      • Experience in RNA-Seq and WGS analysis

    • Flawless aseptic technique and sterile culturing of microorganisms

      • Practical experience growing microalga, yeast or bacteria (preferred)

    • Experience with lab scale (up to 20L) microbial fermentation

    • Proficiency in developing, troubleshooting, and executing biochemical assays

    • Ability to work independently, being resourceful, and proactive in solving complex problems, including in knowing when to seek help

    • Comfort with juggling multiple tasks efficiently and prioritizing workload

    • Excellent presentation and communication skills

    • Impeccable scientific and work ethics

    • Diligent notebook-taking, well-organized, and with attention to detail

    • Highly motivated, team-oriented individual

    • Can-do attitude to problem-solving using novel approaches

    Note: This position is only open to UK citizens or citizens possessing the requisite legal permissions for long term stay and work in the UK

  • PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Metabolic Engineering, Protein Engineering, Biochemistry, Bioprocess engineering, Biology, or related fields with at least 3 years of experience in industry and/or academia

  • Salary range: £45,000-50,000 per year, plus benefits package

  • Open until filled

  • Please send CV and cover letter to info@axitan.com, with subject “RSII050723”. Applicants will be selected for initial video-call interviews on a rolling basis.

    **APPLICANTS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED UNLESS A COVER LETTER IS ALSO PROVIDED**

Chris Kaye