Research Associate – Protein Expression & Antibody Development

Virax Biolabs UK Ltd is an innovative biotechnology company focused on immune-response detection technologies. The company is developing its flagship Virax Immune™ profiling platform, aimed at supporting the development of in vitro diagnostic (IVD) assays for chronic and post-infectious conditions, including Long Covid, Lyme disease and ME/CFS. In parallel, Virax Biolabs is expanding Immune Select, a portfolio of products and services supporting immunology and clinical research.

We are recruiting a Research Associate to join our Antibody Development team, providing hands‑on support across bacterial protein expression, molecular biology, and antibody discovery workflows.

• Culture and transform bacteria for plasmid propagation and recombinant protein expression.
• Purify and prepare plasmid DNA for transfection, including DNA isolation, PCR, and molecular cloning support.
• Isolate and characterise proteins from bacterial expression systems, and assist with assessing protein function.
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and plates to support daily lab operations.
• Assist the team with phage display and phage library handling activities.
• Maintain aseptic technique and general lab standards across all work areas.
• Contribute to SOP writing and conduct COSHH assessments for methods and materials used.
• Maintain accurate, detailed lab records in line with quality standards.

• BSc/MSc in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline (or equivalent hands‑on lab experience).
• Practical experience with bacterial culture and transformation.
• Experience with DNA isolation/preparation and PCR; familiarity with molecular cloning.
• Comfortable with buffer and plate preparation, and aseptic technique.
• Some exposure to protein isolation and characterisation.
• Desirable: exposure to phage display or phage library work (training will be provided and advanced experience is not expected).
• Desirable: familiarity with ISO 9001/GLP environments, SOP writing, COSHH assessments.
• Strong attention to detail and good written record‑keeping.

We offer a competitive compensation package, designed to reward performance while supporting long‑term growth and flexibility.

• Competitive base salary, aligned with experience
• Performance‑based bonus structure
• 28 days' annual leave plus UK bank holidays
• Pension scheme with 6% employer and 2% employee contributions