Cell Culture Scientist

Cell Culture Scientist - neurodegenerative disease drug discovery

Talisman Therapeutics Ltd is a neuroscience drug discovery company based in Cambridge, UK. Building upon the world-class knowledge and skills of its team, Talisman develops and employs proprietary human stem cell models of neurodegenerative and neurological disease to advance the development of novel therapeutics through our internal research projects and external collaborations. This is an exciting time to join the company as we develop and expand our research portfolio.

We are currently recruiting for a Cell Culture Scientist to join our well-established cell culture team. This is an opportunity for an experienced and skilled cell culture scientist to join a specialist team working in the cell and molecular biology of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. The ideal candidate will demonstrate enthusiasm and commitment to cell culture research, combined with excellent organisational skills. Day-to-day tasks include management of cell culture production, undertaking detailed quality control assessments, and working closely with the wider research team to support project delivery. We are looking for a collaborative team member who wants to make a difference as part of an experienced team.

Key areas of responsibility:

1. Human iPSC culture and differentiation
   • Responsibility for maintaining human iPSC lines
   • Generation of different cell types from human iPSCs, including neurons and microglia, to meet project needs
   • Supporting project leaders with development and execution of cell-based assays
2. Quality Control
   • Undertaking QC on iPSC lines
   • Maintenance of QC data records and reporting
   • Oversight of all QC on differentiated cells
3. Development work
   • Hands-on involvement in disease model development work

Skills and qualifications:

An honours degree in the biological or physical sciences is essential and a Masters or PhD in a relevant field (or equivalent experience) is desirable. Essential skills include advanced cell culture skills and hands-on expertise in at least one of: molecular/cell biology, neuroscience, neurodegeneration or inflammation research. Experience in working with stem cell models, complex coculture systems, organoids or gene editing approaches (e.g. CRISPR-Cas9) would be an advantage.

Employee benefits:

The role will be based at the Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge. We offer excellent compensation and benefits that reflect the strong company commitment to employee wellbeing. Our benefits include a 4.5-day week for all staff to enable work-life balance, an Employee Share Option Scheme, a non-contributory Life Assurance scheme, non-contributory BUPA Private Medical Insurance and access to a cycle-purchase scheme. Salary will be in the region of £33,000-£40,000 depending on experience. Should you wish to be considered for this position, please apply via LinkedIn with a CV and covering letter by Monday 2nd Dec 2024 at 12:00 noon. Informal enquiries about the position may be directed to James Smith, Head of Scientific Operations (james@talisman-therapeutics.com).