Scientists in DNA synthesis

NPL wishes to appoint two Higher Scientists in Biomolecular Synthesis and Assembly to support the lab’s ambition to  establish a National Institute in Engineering biology. The posts will be integrated within the NPL’s Centre for Engineering Biology, Metrology, and Standards and Cryo-EM laboratories.

The Centre is a multidisciplinary team developing innovative tools, materials, and reference standards to address the challenges of reproducibility, traceability, and comparability in Engineering Biology.

In your work at NPL, you will:

• establish a state-of-the-art facility for DNA synthesis and assembly
• -operate, develop, and maintain the facility
• perform research involving the design, synthesis, assembly of DNA
• collect and analyse data and prepare technical reports for publications and commercial contracts
• contribute to the delivery of various R&D projects in partnership with industry
• support collaborative initiatives with industry and research organisations in the UK and abroad

We are now working in a hybrid way, with a mix of remote and office working. We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.

With a degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry, you

• are passionate about science and committed to personal development as a scientist
• have a solid knowledge in solid phase chemical synthesis and DNA assembly
• possess practical skills in synthesis, purification, and assembly of biopolymers
• demonstrate a customer focused attitude and a good team working ethos
• are able to plan and perform research following standard operating procedures and health and safety regulations

  Advantageous skills include

• experience in molecular cloning and assembly, mass spectrometry and cell free systems.
• previous experience working in industry or bio-foundries
• automated, parallel and high-throughput synthesis

There will also be opportunities to develop and harness these skills in the NPL.

For research examples please see:

Hoose, A, et al. Nat Rev Chem; Briones, A. et al iScience; Kepiro, I. et al. ACS Nano; De Santis, E. et al, Nat Commun. 

For industry case studies please see:

https://www.npl.co.uk/case-studies/supporting-the-uk-biotechnology-industry

https://www.npl.co.uk/case-studies/optimising-viral-vaccine-development

https://www.npl.co.uk/case-studies/3d-bio-processor-technology-synthetic-biology

This role is being advertised across multiple salary zones. Offer and salary will be dependent on experience.

Please note that applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward.  We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. 

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. 

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

 We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. 

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.