Research Assistant, Biochemistry
About Bind
Bind Research is an innovative not-for-profit research organisation at the forefront of developing tools and datasets to characterise small-molecule interactions with intrinsically disordered proteins. Based just a short walk from Kings Cross station, Bind leverages interdisciplinary methods that span experimental biophysics – with a strong focus on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy – as well as computational approaches and cellular studies. You will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this cutting-edge research initiative from the beginning.
Join Bind Research and help push the limits of drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins. If you are dedicated to supporting the advancement science and technology in an innovative environment, we encourage you to apply!
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our interdisciplinary team focused on drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). In this role, you will support innovative research programs within our biochemistry laboratory dedicated to the development of methods for screening and characterizing molecular interactions of small molecules with disordered protein targets. Working closely with senior scientists, you will support general laboratory operations and contribute to the production of proteins used in downstream assays for compound screening and structural or biophysical analyses. This is a unique and exciting opportunity to be a part of a growing not-for-profit research organisation dedicated to making disordered proteins druggable and thereby unlocking new therapeutic avenues.
Key Responsibilities
Reagent Preparation
- Prepare laboratory buffers and stock solutions
- Prepare culture media, including media for isotopically labelled expression of proteins
- Coordinate autoclaving of media and buffers with the building services
- Perform labelling of proteins and reagents, for example with fluorescent tags
Laboratory operations
- Manage laboratory logistics, including coordinating deliveries, waste management and relationship with building management
- Maintain reagent stock levels, place orders, and ensure a smooth supply of reagent and consumables in the lab
- Assist with laboratory safety practices and surveillance
- Maintain up to date safety documentation
- Perform routine equipment maintenance including centrifuges, pH meter calibration, AKTA FPLC systems
- Coordinate the preparation and shipment of samples to external facilities and collaborators
Protein Production
- Produce and maintain plasmid DNA and competent cell stocks
- Undertake expression of recombinant proteins in E. coli
- Evaluate protein quality using analytical methods such as SDS-PAGE,UV-Vis spectroscopy and size-based measurements
- Purify proteins using established protocols including affinity, ion exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography on an AKTA FPLC
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with scientists and other team members to provide high quality samples and reagents for biochemical or biophysical assays
- Support the management of wet lab operations and contribute to continuous process improvements
- Maintain accurate and well-organised documentation of results, protocols, and reagent inventories
Thrive in a dynamic, start-up-style environment where initiative and flexibility in your role are valued.
Qualifications and Expertise
We encourage applications from biochemists, biophysicists, and individuals with relevant transferable skills who are enthusiastic about our mission to make disordered proteins druggable, even if they do not meet every requirement listed below. We believe innovation thrives through diverse perspectives and welcome candidates from both academic and industry backgrounds.
Education and Experience
- BSc or equivalent experience in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field
- Hands-on experience in a wet-lab environment
- Experience in reagent and buffer preparation, and aseptic technique
- Experience with recombinant protein expression in E. coli
Skills and Abilities
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with team members in diverse fields
- Strong organisational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
- Familiarity with maintaining laboratory records, safety standards, and operational efficiency
Additional Attributes
- A collaborative mindset and an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary teamwork
- Dedication to continuous professional development in biochemical/biophysical methods relevant to intrinsically disordered proteins
- Passion for contributing to the establishment and growth of a world-class not-for-profit research organisation
Nice to have
- Experience with protein purification and characterisation
- Experience of producing isotopically labelled samples for NMR studies
- Experience in coordinating laboratory deliveries and managing reagent inventories to support ongoing research operations
Who You Are
- Team player. You appreciate that in a small organisation, you may need to roll your sleeves up and get stuck in.
- More than just the numbers. You like working with numbers, but understand how to bring meaning to them and use them to tell a story.
- Process-savvy, but flexible. You bring order to chaos, but you are able to be pragmatic and adapt.
- A clear communicator. You present well to different audiences, know how to avoid the jargon and write crisply. You take people on the journey with you.
- Problem solver. You thrive in coming up with solutions and thinking outside the box.
- Technically strong. We don’t mind which route you’ve taken to get to where you are, but you know your stuff and are most likely to be a few years post qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
- Experienced in biotech, life sciences, research operations, or startups - but we’re open-minded for the right candidate. This might be your first step up to a financial controller role but you’re ready for the challenge.
Our Culture
- Follow the science. We prioritise rigorous scientific inquiry, relying on evidence and expertise to guide decisions and actions, incorporating the latest research to achieve meaningful, ethical, and impactful outcomes for the public and scientific community.
- Think dynamically. We believe the most effective solutions come from a dynamic, adaptable mindset that embraces uncertainty as a catalyst for discovery, encouraging creativity, challenging assumptions, and approaching problems from multiple angles to foster innovation, navigate complexity, and deliver exceptional results.
- Celebrate a diverse ensemble. We celebrate diversity and inclusion, fostering a culture where all perspectives, backgrounds, and talents are valued, respected, and empowered to thrive, enabling us to better understand our community, collaborate effectively, and deliver impactful solutions.
- Build an innovation hub. We strive to advance disordered protein research by creating and sharing tools and datasets collaboratively, building on past contributions, and working alongside the disordered protein community to deepen understanding and maximise collective impact.
What We Offer
- Industry-competitive salary
- 38 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
- Employer pension contribution in line with market standards
- Comprehensive private healthcare
- Cycle to work scheme
- Life insurance
Additional information
- The interview process will begin with a phone screen. Successful candidates will then be invited to an in-person interview and assessment, with ample time to meet the team
- As maths plays an important role in our laboratory work, a brief maths skills assessment will be included as part of the interview process
- Due to the hands-on nature of the role, we expect the successful candidate to attend the Bind offices and laboratories on all working days. While Bind supports flexibility where possible, this position is not suitable for routine remote or hybrid working
- Although we anticipate this will be a busy role, part-time and flexible arrangements may be considered for the right candidate and we welcome your suggestions
- To apply send your CV and cover letter to careers@bindresearch.org with the reference number BRJ015 and your name in the email header
Join Bind Research and help push the limits of drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins!
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