Job Details:

Research Associate/Senior Research Associate at CS Genetics

CS Genetics is a privately-held genomics-technology company based in Cambridge, UK and San Diego, California. We are a nimble, highly-capable team focused on delivering genuine step-change innovation in genomic tools for research and clinical applications. We have developed a disruptive platform for single-cell genomics which leverages instrument-free, solution-phase chemical biology to provide unmatched ease-of-use, scalability, and affordability.

Position Summary

We’re looking for an audacious and dedicated laboratory scientist to join our NGS R&D team as a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate (dependent on experience). You will work closely with our broader R&D team to develop and optimise new reagent, assay, and application technologies for single-cell genomics, and will perform molecular, chemical, and cell-biology assays to improve and optimise performance and robustness. The ideal candidate will have experience performing hands-on molecular biology lab work and a deep desire to learn and master new laboratory techniques, and a keen intellectual interest in DNA sequencing technologies and their applications.

This will be a very challenging, multifaceted laboratory R&D position within a fast-moving genomics technology-development group, and will involve exposure to a variety of new experimental technologies, R&D processes, and end-to-end product development across applications in single-cell genomics and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform complex, cutting-edge lab work to develop new technologies for single-cell genomics.
• Quickly learn, quickly master, and quickly apply major molecular and chemical biology laboratory techniques.
• Develop, assess, and optimise categorically new laboratory reagents, techniques, and assay workflows for NGS.
• Engineer and evaluate new types of laboratory kits/products for use by academic and translational scientists.
• Work with a team of other laboratory scientists developing new ways of using NGS for diverse applications.
• Communicate internally and with external partners via oral updates, written reports, and technical meetings.

Required Skills and Background

• BA/BSc or equivalent in molecular biology, bioengineering, chemistry, biochemistry, genetics/genomics, biophysics or similar relevant subject.
• At least 1 year of full-time experience performing hands-on lab work in an academic and/or industrial setting in one of the following relevant fields: Life Sciences (e.g. molecular biology, genetics/genomics, bioengineering, or similar), and/or Physical Sciences (e.g. chemistry, biological chemistry, biophysics, or similar).
• Knowledge and practical experience with one of the following: Molecular Biology techniques (e.g. PCR/qPCR, RT, electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, etc), and/or Chemistry Techniques applicable to biomolecules like nucleic acids (e.g. modification and conjugation of oligonucleotides, detection with spectroscopic techniques like UV and fluorescence, surface chemistries for nucleic acid technologies, etc).
• Understanding of NGS sequencing platforms and appreciation for the chemistry/physics/biology interface.
• Attention to detail in hands-on lab work, in record-keeping, and in communications with others.
• Willingness to learn new protocols, and an ability to work and advance independently once trained in a method.
• Enthusiasm for a demanding, fast-paced R&D role in a small-startup environment.

Desired Skills and Background

• Prior experience with one of the following: NGS Sequencing (e.g. sample preparation methods such as DNA/RNA/ChIP-seq etc) and/or with other sophisticated nucleic acid or protein detection technologies/methods (molecular, optical, or otherwise).
• Scientific knowledge relevant to nucleic acids and NGS.
• Knowledge of common maths/statistics relevant to scientific research.
• MSci/MRes/MPhil or equivalent in a relevant field preferred but not required.

What We Offer

• Location: Central Cambridge, UK, a short walk from Cambridge train station.
• Culture: You will join an exceptional team with a dynamic and interactive culture.
• Health & Wellbeing: You will receive Private Medical Insurance through BUPA and a Health Cash Plan through Medicash, for you and your family.
• Pension: We offer a 10% employer pension contribution scheme through AVIVA.
• Equity: Enrolled in the equity incentive program.
• Holidays: Employees in the UK get 25 days holiday per year, plus bank holidays.
• Socials: Regular company and community social activities.
• Tech: New joiners receive a company MacBook Air on their first day.
• Referral Incentive: You’ll receive a bonus for each successful employee referral.
• VISA: Visa sponsorship available for exceptional candidates.

CS Genetics is not working with recruiters for this role; interested applicants must apply directly to the company.