SENIOR SCIENTIST / PRINCIPAL 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:

https://www.maxiontherapeutics.com/.

About the Role

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated Senior Scientist II / Principal Scientist (depending on experience) to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Associate Director of Protein Sciences, the successful candidate will lead and coordinate the antibody production pipeline, including the line management and development of team members. Working collaboratively with colleagues across the Protein Sciences Team, they will also provide support for antigen production, as needed, in a fast-paced and innovative environment.

The ideal candidate will have experience in the production and characterization of antibodies, a strong understanding of the antibody production pipeline, and demonstrated management and organizational skills. They will play a key role in helping the company achieve its ambitious goals. Candidates should be comfortable working in our agile, start-up culture and fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Express different antibody/KnotBody® formats using mammalian expression systems
• Purify expressed proteins using a range of chromatography techniques with FPLC systems.
• Characterize and perform quality control of purified antibodies and KnotBody® molecules using biochemical and biophysical methods (e.g. SDS-PAGE, CE-SDS, HPLC-SEC).
• Manage a small group of tissue culture and protein scientist specialists, providing support in the laboratory when needed.
• Ensure the uninterrupted functionality of the antibody and KnotBody® production pipeline.
• Support the Protein Sciences team in antigen production 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.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of all work in laboratory notebooks, in accordance with company procedures.

Candidate Profile

• Degree in Life Sciences, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or equivalent relevant experience. A PhD in a related field would be an advantage but not a necessity.
• Proven expertise in antibody purification, with a strong understanding of the antibody production pipeline and experience in chromatography techniques (e.g. size exclusion, affinity, ion exchange).
• Hands-on experience with tissue culture and related lab techniques.
• Excellent management, organisational, and communication skills, with a strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific rigor and quality.
• Desire and ability to work in a fast-paced, quickly changing environment, showing agility/flexibility to meet deadlines and goals with a can-do attitude.
• Ability to effectively manage priorities, problem-solve proactively, and adapt to rapidly evolving project demands.

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.