Research Assistant – Functional Genomics

Location: London, UK (on-site)

Start date: ASAP

Position: Full-time, 12-month contract (with potential for extension)

Level: Entry / Early-career (Recent MSc graduates)

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our growing Functional Genomics team . This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge genetic screening efforts aimed at decoding complex disease biology and accelerating target discovery.

You’ll work closely with scientists across wet-lab and computational teams to support high-throughput screening, genome engineering, and cellular assay development. This position is ideal for a recent MSc graduate with hands-on experience in CRISPR/Cas9 editing, mammalian cell culture, and a desire to contribute to impactful translational research.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform mammalian cell culture, including maintenance of primary and immortalised cell lines
• Support and execute CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing workflows (e.g., transfection, nucleofection, viral transduction)
• Assist in the preparation and execution of arrayed or pooled functional screens
• Contribute to sample preparation for downstream assays, including flow cytometry, imaging, and molecular profiling
• Maintain detailed and accurate experimental records (ELNs)
• Assist with lab operations and ensure smooth day-to-day functioning of screening activities
• Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot protocols and ensure reproducibility

Essential Qualifications

• MSc in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or related field completed in the past 6 months
• Demonstrated, hands-on experience with CRISPR genome editing in a laboratory setting
• Strong proficiency in culturing primary and/or immortalised mammalian cell lines
• Familiarity with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, Western blotting, transfection)
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to follow SOPs precisely

Desirable Skills

• Experience with high-content imaging or flow cytometry
• Exposure to high-throughput screening or automation
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment

Why Join Us?

• Work alongside a highly interdisciplinary team of scientists dedicated to solving complex biological problems
• Get hands-on exposure to advanced functional genomics and drug discovery platforms
• Gain mentorship and training opportunities in a fast-growing biotech environment
• Contribute to research that directly impacts human health and disease understanding