Research Assistant - Chemistry NATA 2083

The NATA Chemistry team have two exciting positions for Research Assistants to join their team. The Research Assistant will be a key member of the NATA Chemistry Team supporting the synthesis and development of new therapeutic oligonucleotides for various translational and collaborative projects. The individual will be involved in either the operation of oligonucleotide synthesizers or developing novel chemistry associated with oligonucleotides. They will also perform analytical techniques to analyse the identity, purity and quality of generated products. The individual will work with other chemistry and biology team members to ensure the smooth running of the NATA projects.

Main Responsibilities

• Take a proactive approach to learning and implementing new techniques and methods related to oligonucleotide chemistry, synthesis and analysis.
• Assist in the synthesis, purification, and analysis of oligonucleotide therapeutics
• Troubleshoot and support procedures and instrumentation
• Manage instruments, reagents, and chemical resources efficiently
• Support the Lab Manager in undertaking lab management duties such as lab and equipment maintenance, H&S administration, inventory, databases, and SOPs
• Keep excellent scientific records and implement databases
• Present work internally and contribute to lab meetings
• Maintain a good knowledge of the relevant literature

Person Specification

Essential selection criteria

• Hold a degree in chemistry or a related field
• Experience in a laboratory, performing organic chemistry or oligonucleotide synthesis
• Expertise in analytical chemistry, organic chemistry or nucleic acid chemistry
• Experience in HPLC purification systems and knowledge of LC-MS analysis of molecules
• Experience in data analysis and interpretation and the ability to write scientifically
• High level of motivation and drive with the ability to multi-task, prioritise work effectively and a willingness to learn
• Good time management and punctuality
• Organised, diligent with a strong eye for detail and regard for data integrity
• Excellent communication skills, effective engagement with colleagues & collaborators and ability to work as part of a team

Desirable selection criteria

• Hold a master’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field
• Interdisciplinary interests with an emphasis on biology, especially on in vitro and in vivo testing
• Knowledge of solid phase synthesis (oligonucleotides or peptides)
• Experience in large data set analysis and database management
• High level of computer literacy
• Working and adhering to quality systems or experience in GMP/GLP

Further Information

Equality & Diversity:

The MRC values the diverse skills and experience of its employees and is committed to achieving equality of treatment for all. Our objectives are that all individuals shall have equal opportunities for employment and advancement on the basis of their skills, aptitudes and abilities. The MRC is committed to the engagement and retention of the best possible talent and to creating an environment that encourages excellence in scientific research through good equality and diversity leadership and management.

Corporate/Local Responsibilities & Requirements:

The post-holder must at all times carry out their responsibilities with due regard to the MRC’s:

• Code of Conduct
• Equality and Diversity policy
• Health and Safety policy
• Data Protection and Security policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between the post-holder and their manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and the post-holder is required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, cooperatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the MRC.

The MRC is a great place to work and progress your career, be it in scientific research or the support functions.The MRC is a unique working environment where our researchers are rewarded by world class innovation and collaboration opportunities that the MRC name brings. The MRC is an excellent place to develop yourself further and a range of training & development opportunities will be available to you, including professional registration with the Science Council.

Choosing to come to work at the MRC (part of UKRI) means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme and excellent holiday entitlement to access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme, as well as the chance to put the MRC and UKRI on your CV in the future.

Our success is dependent upon our ability to embrace diversity and draw on the skills, understanding and experience of all our people. We welcome applications from all sections of the community irrespective of gender, race, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, disability or age. As "Disability Confident" employers, we guarantee to interview all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

UKRI supports research in areas that include animal health, agriculture and food security, and bioscience for health which includes research on animals, genetic modification and stem cell research. Whilst you may not have direct involvement in this type of research, you should consider whether this conflicts with your personal values or beliefs.

We will conduct a full and comprehensive pre-employment check as an essential part of the recruitment process on all individuals that are offered a position with UKRI. This will include a security check and an extreme organisations affiliation check.