Our Company

Origin Sciences is a start-up biotechnology company based in Granta Park, just south of Cambridge. We develop our own innovative medical devices, which we use in clinical trials to collect a biobank of mucus-based biospecimens. This biobank provides clinical material for our research and development streams to assist with diagnostic development.

Our primary disease area is Colorectal Cancer (CRC). We are creating a minimally invasive and accurate CRC diagnostic, which will allow the NHS to focus more resources on patients with serious pathologies. Our motivations are to reduce NHS waiting times, enable earlier CRC detection and reduce unnecessary investigations performed on healthy patients.

Our CRC diagnostic is analogous to blood-based liquid biopsies. However, we have the advantage of evaluating material that was collected closer to the pathology of interest.

Requirements

We are seeking a motivated scientist with experience in basic molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, DNA extraction, and DNA quantification assays. It is an opportunity for candidates with a solid background in molecular biology to take a key role in supporting projects leading to the development of diagnostic assays.

The position is suitable for an individual who enjoys working flexibly in a fast-paced, dynamic setting. As our company is in its early stages, there are potential opportunities for growth and development as we expand and evolve.

Main duties may include:

Routinely performing:

• DNA, RNA extraction, and manage biobank clinical sample storage;
• PCR-based quality control methods
• Preparation for and completion of NGS assays
• Completion of routine scientific reports

• Preparation of buffer solutions
• Contribute to collaborative projects with external partners
• Contribute to laboratory maintenance, including equipment maintenance and cleaning
• Be accountable for the time, cost, and quality of agreed deliverables
• Provide regular updates on the progress, risks, and opportunities related to deliverables
• Work in a regulated lab environment e.g. Good Clinical Practice, ISO 13485 or other GxP
• Handle and process human samples

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• Enthusiastic and self-motivated individual
• BSc in Genetics, Epigenetics, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology or Biochemistry (or equivalent experience).
• A minimum of 1 year scientific research experience. 
• Excellent understanding of molecular biology techniques.
• Excellent attention to detail and recording keeping.
• Ability to critically evaluate data, focusing on quality and reproducibility
• Proficiency in time management, multitasking, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Good organisational skills. 
• Strong interpersonal communication skills.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• Experience working with clinical samples.
• Knowledge of next-generation sequencing library preparation.
• Knowledge of epigenetics assays development.
• Experience working in a regulated environment, e.g. Good Clinical Practice, ISO 13485 or other GxP.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday (excluding bank holidays)
• Pension contribution