ASSOCIATE/RESEARCH SCIENTIST - PROTEIN SCIENCES

ASSOCIATE/RESEARCH SCIENTIST - PROTEIN SCIENCES 

About Maxion

Maxion has engineered a new class of biologics by harnessing knottins, one of nature’s most potent modulators of ion channels and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR). Combining a knottin with an antibody’s advantageous drug properties, we are developing transformative treatments that reach new levels of specificity and durability for patients with ion channel and GPCR-driven diseases. Initially focused on immunological diseases, heart disorders and chronic pain, our pipeline of proprietary KnotBody® molecules will access targets that have long remained beyond the reach of biologics.

Situated at Unity Campus in Cambridge, UK, Maxion Therapeutics fosters a dynamic and forward-thinking work environment underpinned by our scientific founders, who are trailblazers in antibody engineering. Led by our CEO, Dr Arndt Schottelius, our experienced leadership team boasts a stellar track record. Dr Schottelius has held senior leadership positions, successfully advancing therapeutics from research to late-stage clinical development and building valuable portfolios of drug candidates and pharma partnerships. Maxion’s co-founders, Dr John McCafferty (CTO) and Dr Aneesh Karatt Vellatt (CSO), previously co-founded IONTAS, and together invented KnotBody® technology. Dr McCafferty is also renowned for co-inventing antibody phage display, which contributed to the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry (awarded to his co-inventor Sir Gregory Winter), and co-founding Cambridge Antibody Technology. 

About the Role

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated Associate/Research Scientist, to join our team. Reporting to Senior Scientist – Protein Sciences, the successful candidate will have experience with production and validation of membrane proteins (Ion channels and GPCRs), helping the company to achieve its challenging goals. The role will also work closely with the Associate Director of Protein Sciences. Candidates should be comfortable with our agile, start-up culture and fast-paced, dynamic working environment.

Key Responsibilities 

• To design and generate DNA constructs using a variety of cloning strategies.
• To express challenging membrane proteins (including GPCRs and ion channels) using insect and mammalian expression systems.
• Purify expressed proteins using various formats (e.g. detergents, nanodiscs, peptidisc, SMALPs, proteoliposomes) and a range of chromatography techniques with FPLC systems.
• Characterize and perform quality control of purified proteins using biochemical and biophysical methods (e.g. SDS-PAGE, BN-PAGE, Western blot, HPLC-SEC, ELISA).
• Support the Protein Sciences team in antibody and KnotBody purification and characterization and contribute to day-to-day lab operations (e.g. maintenance of chromatography instruments, preparation of SOPs and risk assessments).
• Analyse, interpret, and clearly communicate experimental data, both verbally and in written reports.
• Proactively troubleshoot and resolve technical issues as they arise.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of all work in laboratory notebooks, in accordance with company procedures.

Candidate Profile 

The ideal candidate will hold a BSc in Life Sciences (e.g., Cell Biology, Immunology) and have relevant industry experience, however candidates without this will still be considered. A PhD in a related field would be advantageous but is not a requirement.

Essential skills include: 

• Experience in insect cell culture and baculovirus expression systems (e.g., linear DNA, bacmid), including maintenance of cells, virus amplification and quantification (plaque assay, qPCR).
• Experience in molecular biology techniques for 
  construct design and generation. (Such as Golden Gate, Gibson Assembly, Traditional restriction Digestion and Ligation) Bacmid Generation is highly advantageous, virus quantification through plaque assays and qPCRs
• Experience in membrane protein purification and characterization.
• Experience with chromatography techniques and systems (e.g. size exclusion chromatography, affinity chromatography, or ion exchange).
• Strong attention to detail, rigorous scientific thinking, and a commitment to quality.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build collaborative working relationships.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Proven ability to work independently.

Beyond this core experience one or more of the following skills will be advantageous: 

• Experience with ion channels or GPCRs.
• Experience in purifying and reconstituting membrane proteins in various formats (e.g. SMALP, MSP Nanodisc, Peptidisc, Proteoliposomes).

What can we offer you?

• A competitive salary based on experience
• A comprehensive benefits package including generous pension contribution, Private Life and Medical Insurance, Cycle to Work Scheme, participation in the company Share Option Scheme, on-site parking and more.
• Significant opportunities for career progression within a dynamic company. 
• Located in a state-of-the art Science Park with easy access to Cambridge by car, train and bus, and offering on-site gym, cafe, and a vibrant social community.
• Working alongside an innovative team of scientists, including the founders, who are Key Opinion Leaders in the field.
• A supportive work environment with a key focus on fostering collaborative working environment within a friendly team.

To apply for this position, click on the link to upload your CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for this role, including your salary expectations.  

Agencies: We are recruiting this role directly with our in-house talent team, so do not need support from agencies.  We also have our own preferred suppliers list which is not being reviewed for additions in the next 12 months.