Scientist​/Senior Scientist, Virology

RQ Biotechnology is a UK based virology company developing long acting monoclonal antibodies against seasonal influenza, with the goal of providing immediate, powerful and long lasting protection against severe viral disease. Following a recent £85.5M Series A fundraise, RQ Bio is advancing its lead candidate through pre clinical development while building a next generation product pipeline.

About the role

RQ Bio is seeking a Scientist or Senior Scientist to lead virology activities across its research and development programmes. This role designs and delivers key virology studies, including viral neutralisation assays, in vivo efficacy studies, and assays supporting antibody discovery and characterisation. Many activities are delivered through external CROs, so strong scientific oversight and vendor management are essential.

Working closely with matrixed R&D teams, CROs and external consultants, you will translate programme objectives into robust experimental plans, oversee study execution and interpret data to inform programme decisions. This role reports to the Head of R&D and can be appointed at Scientist or Senior Scientist level depending on experience.

This is a hybrid role, based at RQ Bio labs in West London, with on site days to be agreed.

What you will do

• Design, establish and oversee virology assays supporting LAAb discovery and preclinical development
• Own execution of outsourced studies, including in vitro and in vivo efficacy assessment
• Build strong working relationships with CROs and external collaborators
• Analyse and interpret study data and recommend follow up activities
• Communicate study plans, progress, results and risks to internal stakeholders
• Contribute to programme strategy, planning and regulatory activities
• Identify scientific or delivery risks and develop mitigation plans
• Maintain high quality scientific records and contribute to IP filings, regulatory documents and publications

What we are looking for

• PhD or equivalent experience in virology, immunology, molecular biology, pharmacology or a related field
• Strong theoretical and practical understanding of virus biology, including pathogenesis and mechanism of action
• Practical experience with live virus, pseudovirus and or viral vectors at CL2
• Experience developing and troubleshooting cell based virology assays, including infectivity and or neutralisation
• Ability to independently design experiments and interpret data
• Experience managing studies delivered through CROs or external partners
• Strong organisational and project management skills
• Experience presenting scientific data to internal and external audiences
• Experience with influenza or similar respiratory viruses
• Background in a biotechnology or pharmaceutical drug development environment
• Experience overseeing GxP compliant preclinical or in vivo assay delivery
• Knowledge of monoclonal antibody discovery, B cell biology and antibody repertoires
• Understanding of laboratory health and safety requirements, including risk assessments for HG2 pathogens and GM organisms

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK