Senior Scientist; Discovery Bioscience

Senior Scientist (Discovery Biology)

Salary: £41,700 - £51,300
Department:
Therapeutic Innovation, R&I

Reports to:

Principal Scientist

Location:

Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge (Lab Based - Low Flex)
Contract type:
Permanent position

Hours:

Full time, 35 hours per week
Closing date:
Sunday 20th September
Interview process: 2 stage interview process, initial screening call via MS Teams followed by on-site competency-based interview with presentation.
Interview Dates:
First stage between 1st – 7th October;
Second stage between 14th – 16th October

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Scientist to join us at Cancer Research Horizons (CRH) in Cambridge, for a permanent position.

• Design, perform and interpret gene perturbation studies using tool therapeutics (compounds or antibodies), gene knockdown and gene editing approaches, as well as rescue studies with over‑expression systems in cancer cell lines and immune‑relevant co‑culture models.
• Conduct and interpret phenotypic analysis in cancer cells including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and colony formation assays, including use of Incucyte analysis.
• Design and execute mechanistic studies to elucidate drug‑target engagement and downstream effects on biological pathways.
• Identify and validate pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarkers to support preclinical‑to‑clinical translation using platforms including:
  Western blot / capillary electrophoresis (e.g., Simple Western) RT qPCR and RNA based signatures, Immunofluorescence for pathway activation (experience of high content imaging is desirable), ELISA/MSD immunoassays Flow Cytometry.
• Review and critically appraise oncology, relevant informatic databases, and related literature, as well as unpublished research to identify and explore novel clinical positioning opportunities and biomarkers.

• PhD (or equivalent) in Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline with industry experience. Candidates with a BSc or MSc (or equivalent) will also be considered if they demonstrate substantial and relevant industry experience.
• Deep scientific understanding of:
  Key oncology areas such as tumour signalling and metabolic pathways, genetics/ epigenetics of cancer associated gene expression, or interactions of the tumour micro‑environment. Mechanisms of drug action and drug resistance. Pharmacology concepts.
• Strong experimental design, technical expertise, and scientific problem‑solving skills.
• Proven track record developing and applying PD biomarkers, mechanism of action, or clinical positioning studies to support delivery of drug discovery programmes.
• Experience in proteomics (including sample preparation, data review and interpretation) and/or contributing to the advancement of later‑stage research programmes towards clinical development and positioning would be a bonus.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey complex data clearly.
• Within this predominantly lab‑based position can work autonomously and adapt to new challenges within a fast‑paced setting.

• Bold:
  Act with ambition, courage and determination
• Credible:
  Act with rigour and professionalism
• Human:
  Act to have a positive impact on people
• Together:
  Act inclusively and collaboratively

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