Research Scientist

RESEARCH SCIENTIST - PROTEIN SCIENCES 

About Maxion

Maxion Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing antibody-based drugs for previously untreatable ion channel- and G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)-driven diseases, including autoimmune conditions, chronic pain, and cardiovascular disease.

The Company is developing a pipeline of potentially first- and best-in-class therapeutics using its proprietary KnotBody technology to generate potent, selective, and long-acting therapeutics by combining naturally occurring mini-proteins ('knottins') with antibodies using state-of-the-art phage and mammalian display technologies.

Maxion was founded in 2020 by highly respected biotech entrepreneurs and scientists Dr John McCafferty, CTO and Dr Aneesh Karatt-Vellatt, CSO. Dr McCafferty previously co-invented antibody phage display, which was the subject of the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to his co-inventor Sir Gregory Winter.
Maxion's portfolio and growth is being advanced by a team of highly experienced leaders in the discovery and development of antibody-based drugs. The Company is based near Cambridge, UK and is backed by international blue-chip investors. For more information, please visit:

About the Role

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

Key Responsibilities 

• 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).
• Design and generate DNA constructs using a variety of cloning strategies.
• 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 ideally have relevant industry experience, however candidates without this will still be considred. A PhD in a related field would be an advantage but not a necessity  .

Essential skills include: 

• 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 insect cell culture and baculovirus.
• 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, just click on the link to upload your CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for this role, including your salary expectations.  Due to data safety, please do not email or apply via direct messaging.

This is a permanent position.

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.