Associate Scientist - Molecular Validation

Enara Bio is shining a light on Dark Antigen® and T-cell biology to develop cancer immunotherapies designed to improve treatment outcomes for broad populations of cancer patients with solid tumors. Our pioneering EDAPT® platform enables us to discover cancer-specific antigens, including HLA-presented and cell surface antigens, from previously uncharted genomic ‘dark matter’. The result is a growing library of Dark Antigens that can address the need for novel, cancer-specific targets in solid tumors.

Through our proprietary EnTiCE® platform, Enara is developing novel bispecific T cell engagers against Dark Antigen targets that are highly prevalent and homogenously expressed across solid tumors.

Based in Oxford, UK, Enara Bio is backed by a strong syndicate of life science investors including RA Capital, Pfizer Ventures, M Ventures, Samsara Bio Capital, SV Health Investors, and the Francis Crick Institute.

We are seeking a motivated Associate Scientist to join our Molecular Validation team on a 12-month fixed-term contract. The role will deliver high-quality scientific work independently within established objectives, supporting the validation of novel Dark Antigen targets across Discovery and early Pipeline programmes.

Working closely with colleagues across Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Translational Research and project teams, the Associate Scientist will design and execute well-defined molecular and cell- or tissue-based studies, interpret results, troubleshoot technical challenges and make evidence-based recommendations for next steps. The role combines hands-on laboratory delivery with strong data integrity, documentation, and collaborative working.

• Design and execute well-defined molecular validation experiments using established protocols and objectives, contributing to target discovery and development programmes.
• Perform molecular biology workflows that may include DNA and RNA extraction and quality control, reverse transcription, PCR or RT-qPCR, cloning or construct handling, and preparation of samples and reagents for downstream studies.
• Handle and process human tissue samples to perform RNA extraction, DNA extraction, and HLA typing, in accordance with Human Tissue Authority (HTA) regulations and guidelines.
• Conduct and support relevant cell- and tissue-based assays to assess target profile, which may include transient transfections and Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS).
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, distinguish observations from conclusions, identify limitations and risks, and recommend logical next steps based on the evidence.
• Troubleshoot routine and non-routine technical issues, seeking appropriate and timely input and contribute ideas that improve assay quality, efficiency and reproducibility.
• Maintain accurate, timely and high-quality experimental records in accordance with Enara standards, supporting internal reporting, patent filings, publications and future regulatory documentation where relevant.
• Communicate scientific rationale, progress, results and issues clearly in project meetings, technical reports and internal updates.
• Collaborate effectively across functions and disciplines to deliver agreed experimental objectives and timelines, sharing knowledge and contributing constructively to project discussions.
• Support method transfer, protocol development and knowledge-sharing activities, including with external collaborators or contract research organisations where required.
• Contribute to the safe and effective running of the laboratory, including equipment upkeep, reagent and stock management, sample organisation and waste management.
• Follow all Environmental, Health and Safety, quality, compliance and data-integrity requirements, and contribute positively to a safe, organised and collaborative laboratory culture.

Essential

• BSc or MSc, or equivalent relevant workplace experience, in molecular biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, immunology or a related life science discipline.
• Hands‑on experience in a biological laboratory environment, ideally within biotechnology, pharmaceutical or translational research.
• Practical experience with core molecular biology techniques, such as DNA/RNA preparation, PCR-based methods, RT-qPCR, cloning or construct handling.
• Skilled aseptic cell culture techniques, particularly using cancer cell lines. Core microbiological techniques, including bacterial culture, agar plate…