Scientist Gene Therapy

This is a full-time opportunity, on a Fixed Term Contract basis until 16 th February 2027. The role will be based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency enhance and improve the health of millions of people every day through the effective regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research. The Research and Development function of the MHRA Science Campus comprises a multi‑disciplinary team of internationally respected scientists who deliver strategically aligned regulatory scientific research focused on the development and distribution of biological reference materials.

The role will support the functioning of the materials production facility. Work will centre around the production and distribution of pre‑existing and novel gene therapy international standards through the support of ongoing assay development, master cell bank production, batch production and quality control. Projects will be centred around viral vectors, with a particular focus on Adeno‑associated virus (AAV) and Lentivirus. The scientist will also be expected to support other research activities in the gene therapy group and in the wider Division, where appropriate.

Therefore, some experience in genome editing techniques is desirable.

• Perform day to day management and maintenance of the material production facility
• Create, maintain, and characterise master cell banks for the generation of pre‑existing or novel gene therapy international standards.
• Plan, design and support assay development and characterisation of new or existing methods for the production of gene therapy standards.
• Work flexibly across multiple projects within the Divisional scientific programme, working both independently and collaboratively, and to agreed project timelines.
• Communicate effectively with other colleagues, maintaining records to a high standard, presenting data at a group and departmental level and contributing to reports and manuscripts for peer review as required.

• MSc in a relevant biological science or BSc with minimum 1 year relevant laboratory experience, for example Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, Virology, Biological Science, Biomedical Science or Biochemistry.
• Practical experience in a range of molecular and cell biology techniques and knowledge of good laboratory practice, for example mammalian cell culture, ELISA, qPCR and Western blotting.
• Ability to Deliver at Pace – Excellent organisational skills and ability to plan work to optimise time management and output across multiple projects.