Senior Biologist – Sequencing

Our mission is to push the boundaries of complex cell analysis. Using the  Lightcast platform we are working with major pharmaceutical companies and leading academic institutes. Together, using our next generation microfluidic platform, we are driving scientific innovation, developing unique therapeutic approaches, and forging a path to exciting new scientific discoveries.  

The  Lightcast platform allows precise and highly flexible independent control of thousands of microdroplets independently and in parallel using software-generated light patterns. By combining droplets  containing different cells, antibodies, cancer drugs, live  reporters  and other reagents we can perform complex workflows and assays with a flexibility far beyond what is currently possible on any cell analysis platform.  

About the role  

We are now seeking a Senior Biologist with hands-on sequencing experience to help us develop our Bio-tools platform ready for market release. As a key team member, you will be responsible for the development and optimisation of protocols for genetic and genomic analysis downstream of assays on the Lightcast platform. You will also drive the translation of molecular and cellular assays to the very unique environment of the Lightcast platform. You will be responsible for optimising the performance of existing assays and design novel workflows down to single cell and picolitre performance. As part of this work, you will establish reference bench assays and adapt them for use on the Lightcast platform. As your work will contribute to the efforts of a multi-functional team, you will also communicate closely with software and instrument development scientists to provide feedback on requirements for on-chip controls and analysis tools as the system evolves towards higher throughput.   

 Your responsibilities will include  

• Developing multi-omics approaches to integrate with cellular workflows on the Lightcast platform, including optimising protocols for NGS library preparation and performing analysis and visualisation of large sequencing datasets. Downsizing protocols to single cell/small volume level  
• Developing and adapting cellular screening workflows to the LC platform  
• Keeping up to date with new technologies that could be applied to the Lightcast platform   
• Working hand-in-hand with the team of cell and molecular biologists, software developers and microfluidics engineers to define appropriately controlled workflows on-chip 
• In close communication with the quality team, develop assays in line with verification and validation requirements 
• Liase with and coordinate 3rd parties for potential combined assay development  

 Collaboration and planning     

• Participate in team technical discussions and problem-solving exercises    
• Support other team members and their projects/mentor junior members of the bio team 
• Contribute to technical meetings  
• Contribute to work plans and test designs  
• Contribute to meetings with external collaborators 
• Communication and documentation  
• Generate SOPs, experimental plans and result reports 
• Prepare presentations and reports for audiences inside and outside the company, including for collaborators and clients   

 
    
We would expect you to have:     

• A PhD in biochemistry or a similar field plus a minimum of 2 years lab-based postdoctoral experience in academia or industry    
• Or an MSc with 7+ years of relevant experience   
• A first-class or 2:1 degree in biochemistry or similar 
• Strong background in biochemical assays, molecular assays and in vitro phenotyping techniques  
• Proven track record in development and validation of molecular and cellular assays with a range of readouts formats  
• Extensive experience in NGS library preparation and pipelines for analysis of NGS data
• Single cell experience and experience with broad range of -omics techniques 
• Experience with use of relevant software/analysis strategies to interpret assay data with respect to sensitivity, specificity, range, stability, reproducibility and precision
• Demonstrable experience with interdisciplinary and cross-functional working  
• Exceptional problem-solving skills  
• Excellent communication skills, ability to relate complex scientific concepts in a clear and concise manner  
• Experience of independent, self-directed work, excellent organizational and record keeping skills
• Strong data analysis skills and experience in visualisation of high-dimensional datasets 

  Advantageous experience    

• Previous experience developing single-cell sequencing and/or multiomics pipelines would be a distinct advantage  
• Experience in genetic screening  
• Familiarity with machine learning approaches for data analysis   
• Demonstrated experience in successful translation of early-stage research into later stages of development and products 
• Experience in developing wet products; from requirements definition, analysis, architecture design, integration, verification / validation, manufacturing and commercialising of molecular products 
• Experience working in a regulated environment (Compliance and Quality, working with QMS systems, internal & training audits, vendor audits, validation assessments, and other related activities) 
• A good understanding of requirements and product development to ISO13485 or other relevant Standards 
• Demonstrated experience for providing technical leadership in the transfer of new processes and products to manufacturing (internally or outsourced to 3rd parties)  

Lightcast Discovery offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits including:      

• 26 days holiday, plus Public Holidays  
• Flexible working hours
• Pension contribution matched up to 7%  
• Private medical insurance  
• Income protection
• Life insurance
• Subsidized gym membership and weekly cross fit sessions
• Access to Cycle to Work and Technology schemes
• Enhanced family leave policies 

Here at Lightcast Discovery we have an informal, open work environment where collaboration and innovation are at the heart of what we do. We are based in West Cambridge, near excellent transport links and plenty of local amenities. We regularly gather as a team to hear about developments across functions and to share ideas. We enjoy social events and regular team lunches, promoting career development and learning opportunities. It is an exciting time to join our revolutionary team as we push boundaries and continue to grow.    

We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries and we are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments that you may require.    

Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK     

Strictly no agencies please