Scientist: Vector Science (Upstream Vector Manufacturing)
At AviadoBio our mission is to transform the lives of people living with neurodegenerative disorders by developing and delivering transformative gene therapies for diseases including frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The company’s technology is based on pioneering research of Professor Christopher Shaw, Professor of Neurology and Neurogenetics, Kings College London, with the support of UK Dementia Research Institute. With support from leading life science investors our experienced and talented team is poised to make a meaningful impact to people living with neurodegenerative disease.
We are rapidly building a passionate team that can help deliver on this mission. It is a great time to join what is a truly innovative and exciting gene therapy company at an early stage; where your work will be impactful and you will benefit from a collaborative, inclusive, open and friendly working environment that promotes both professional development and fun. There is a tangible air of excitement and an unwavering belief that the work we do each day will contribute to patients.
The Role:
AviadoBio are looking for a talented Scientist I or II (Vector Science) to contribute ot the design and manufacture adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors for use in the development of gene therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. This will include some of the tasks below:
- Upstream Processing: Culture and transfection of HEK cells with plasmids for AAV Capsid proteins and ITR cassettes for the generation of AAV vectors for the discovery pipeline.
- Downstream Processing: Purification of capsids and separation of full and empty capsids using HPLC and ultracentrifugation.
- Conduct assays to evaluate and characterize viral vector purity (capsid protein abundance) and ITR cassette integrity (Alkaline gels) and endotoxins.
- Conduct tests for vector potency and for research and manufacturing pipelines
- Deliver high-value data supporting all aspects of AAV vector design and development
- Keep up-to date with the scientific literature and introduce new technologies to the design and manufacture of AAV vectors
- Introduce new procedures and innovations to improve workflow and vector quality.
- Function representative for Project Teams relaying project decisions to the Vector Science team and working cross functionally to meet the company goals.
- Collaborate closely with colleagues in other functional teams to ensure successful project development and overcome technical challenges
- This is a wonderful opportunity to join a talented team of scientists in a truly exciting gene therapy company. You will engage in cutting-edge vector design and play a key role in the development and manufacture of our innovative and life-changing gene therapies.
Responsibilities:
- Manufacture AAV Viral vectors, test their potency and detect impurities
- Support work involving external collaborations and CROs.
- Preparation and presentation of results at internal and external meetings and for publication
- Ability to work independently and lead and motivate others
- To support early candidate evaluation and subsequent selection.
- Ensure all required documentation and experimental write-ups are completed and approved in a timely manner.
- Interface and collaborate with other functional teams in Discovery and Vector science, Cell Line development, Upstream; Downstream, Operation, CRO/CMO outsourcing in planning, execution, and technical trouble shooting.
Requirements
- A MSc in Biotechnology, Bioprocess engineering, Immunology, Cell/ Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related discipline.
- Some experience in the biotech industry preferred.
- Scientific training and background in one or more of the following areas: Cell and Gene therapy, preparation of peptide display/variant libraries, novel barcoding and next generation sequencing techniques, bioinformatics, high through-put screening assays for AAV variants or other gene delivery technologies.
- Strong knowledge in molecular biology and synthetic biology/ bioinformatics is highly desirable.
- Build strong working relationships with enabling functions, including IP, Legal, Business Development and team to ensure the optimal environment for the delivery of objectives
- Strong critical, scientific, and strategic thinking skills; problem solving and decision-making abilities.
Benefits
- Competitive Salary
- Annual Bonus
- Exciting Equity Plan
- Pension Scheme
- Private Healthcare
- Childcare/Nursery scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Discount club
- Gym benefits
- Life Insurance
- Career Development Opportunities