based in London, UK
ESYA is building a dynamic team that is passionate about translating new discoveries at the nexus of biotechnology, cell biology, imaging, and neurology. We are expanding our research capabilities in our newly established London laboratory and are seeking an experienced Chemical Biologist to join our growing research team.
YOUR ROLE
You will be the key lead for our phenotypic screening for neurodegenerative diseases. You will also contribute to the design and implementation of various chemical biology workflows in the laboratory, including validating of novel sensors, developing cell-based bio-active molecular screening experiments, and performing data analysis. You should have a background in chemistry, biochemistry or chemical biology and experience with microscopy or high-throughput screening approaches.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
Contribute to the design and implementation of chemical biology and small molecule screening technology in the laboratory, including optimizing phenotypic screening using patient cells, labelling with various fluorescent probes, and performing image analysis.
Take a lead role in setting up high content analysis and functional molecular screening platforms using state-of-the-art microscopes and image processing.
Work with the R&D team to validate new sensors and research assays to profile organelles (eg. mitochondria and lysosomes) implicated in neurocognitive impairments.
Provide scientific oversight to developed research assays and review protocols and reports.
Identify and apply for relevant grants and funding opportunities.
Complete projects and prepare appropriate reports within agreed timelines.
Identify and build partnerships for collaborative research within academia, as well as in the biotechnology industry.
Ensure quality control and compliance with health and safety procedures.
KEY SKILLS
CHEMISTRY and CHEMICAL BIOLOGY
Experience in DNA sequence design, fluorophore design, synthesis and purification, bioconjugation and nucleic acid purification, and evaluation of sensor performance characteristics.
Experience in spectroscopy (UV/CD/fluorescence), NMR, mass spectrometry, gel electrophoresis, HPLC, and chemical synthesis.
Generation of target-specific small molecule libraries and their interaction with cells, organelles, or protein complexes.
BIOLOGY
Mammalian cell culture and transfection, cell-based assays, Western blot, from mammalian cell lines and tissue sections.
Cell culture, transfection, creation of stable cell lines, basic molecular biology, immunofluorescence, and live cell imaging.
Cellular-level understanding of how various organelles (eg. mitochondria and lysosomes) impact neuronal function.
Understanding of neurocognitive impairments related to Alzheimer’s disease and its impact on organelle function.
IMAGING
Proficiency in imaging software (ImageJ, Fiji, Metamorph, MATLAB).
Cell-based screening, high content analysis, data representation, and coding.
OTHER
- Good knowledge of general laboratory procedures and experience in lab management.
- Ability to work both independently and within a team in a highly-dynamic environment and on several different projects or tasks concurrently.
- Demonstrated engagement with science and a willingness to learn new techniques, be adaptable to new approaches, and be eager to work with a fast-moving team.
QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD or MSc in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related subject with an emphasis or research experience in chemical biology or protein engineering.
- Cell biology and microscopy experience required.
OUR OFFER
- Unique learning opportunity in neurology and the pathways of neurodegenerative diseases
- Opportunities to work with leading researchers in molecular biology.
- A competitive salary, reviewed annually, combined with an attractive bonus structure.
- Flexible working hours (core hours 10-4, with a 40-hour working week).
- Ongoing professional development support and a significant opportunity to grow with our company.
If you crave challenges and understudied problems, there’s no better place to be.
Esya is a dynamic company operating at the intersection of biochemistry, technology, and medicine.
If you crave challenges, understudied problems, and the chance to see your work impact the millions of lives touched by Alzheimer’s Disease, there’s no better place to be.
