Associate Scientist (Protein Purification)
Coventry
Posted 22 days ago
On-site
Full-time
Entry Level
ABOUT THE COMPANY NanoSyrinx is an award-winning synthetic biology company focused on a novel targeted drug delivery technology with the vision of fundamentally revolutionising how biological medicines are delivered into cells. To do this, we are leveraging one of nature’s own elegant solutions: naturally occurring, bacterial protein Nanosyringes™, capable of encapsulating and delivering therapeutic payloads in a cell specific manner, with nano-scale precision.
Since its inception in 2020, the company has raised ~£20M in venture financing from top tier investors. You will be joining the company at a critical moment in its evolution as we select and advance a therapeutic asset pipeline, and position ourselves to push towards the clinic over the next few years.
ABOUT THE TEAM You will be joining a company of 22, with an existing scientific team of 15 people with diverse technical skills from both academia and industry, including microbiology, molecular biology, protein expression and purification, and translational biology. We are looking for a candidate who is excited to work collaboratively and flexibly as part of this close-knit and friendly group, with initiative, working towards a common goal.
The position is based at our site at the University of Warwick, with the company being headquartered at the University of Warwick Science Park, Coventry.
THE ROLE We are looking to hire a Protein Purification Associate Scientist to join our growing team. You will be responsible for the purification and analytical characterisation of Nanosyringe complexes and associated proteins, playing a central role in delivering against company and programme milestones and supporting both internal teams and external collaborators. Key responsibilities include: Designing, planning, executing experiments to purify Nanosyringes and other proteins at different scales Performing analytical methods for process and product characterisation Analysing data and presenting results to managers and internal teams Documenting experiments, writing and updating protocols Maintaining a safe and compliant laboratory You will be an important member of the Downstream process development team within NanoSyrinx, and have the opportunity to help the company shape its processes and technical capabilities. You will also have the opportunity to be exposed to broader aspects of molecular biology/genetics, cell biology and assay design.
WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED For this role, the following criteria are essential: BSc, MSc or equivalent industry experience in a relevant discipline such as protein engineering, biochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or similar related field Experience in protein purification using chromatography formats such as ion-exchange or size exclusion Experience with SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis and protein quantification Adaptable to changing demands whilst operating to deadlines Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills Keen to learn new techniques Write up experiments accurately, in a timely manner Adept at interpreting results and drawing conclusions, to help guide the next experiment Work collaboratively within a team, hands-on approach to supporting general laboratory operations as needed
For this role, the following criteria are desirable: Experience with recombinant protein expression in bacteria Experience using AKTA and working with large biological proteins Work experience in an industry/biotechnology laboratory environment (particularly a start-up or similar environment)
Additionally, for all of our positions, the following criteria are essential:
Strong team ethic We are a close-knit, dynamic team (and it’s not just the usual corporate cliché!). We value the trust we have in each other and our work. This is reciprocated by transparency, and diligence. We collectively strive to provide and preserve work-life-balance. Attention to detail Attention to detail is required in all aspects of the job, whether that be working safely in laboratory space, or writing up experimental procedures and recording data in lab books. Life in a small biotech is heavily goal and milestone driven, and it is crucial that we are focussed and in control of as many details as possible. Interpersonal skills The quality and cohesiveness of a team is often the number one determinant of success for a small company. It is therefore absolutely essential to demonstrate respect for, and consideration of, others and their work. This means needing to work conscientiously and professionally, and to have the ability to communicate effectively with others - particularly regarding the presentation of scientific data at an appropriate level. This includes, for example, the ability to create high quality presentations of data, the ability to produce informative figures, slides and documentation, but also to communicate within the team to achieve common goals. Agile Ability to work to deadlines, particularly when more than one project may demand time commitment.
WHAT WE OFFER NanoSyrinx provides a friendly working environment where team work, trust and transparency are at the heart of everything we do. We’re situated at the well-connected University of Warwick’s modern campus which provides access to an additional range of laboratory capabilities.
We understand that science and real life don’t always keep office hours, so we offer flexible working, with competitive allowances for annual and parental leave etc.
In addition to competitive salaries, NanoSyrinx operates a discretionary cash bonus scheme (up to 10% of annual salary). All employees are eligible to receive Company Stock Options upon completion of probation.
NanoSyrinx operates a salary sacrifice workplace pension (provided by Aviva), with up to 5% matched employer contributions (further details will be provided in your employment contract). NanoSyrinx also offers competitive health care cover (also provided via Aviva).
The opportunity to travel nationally and internationally for professional development and company advancement.
WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER NanoSyrinx is an equal opportunity employer and committed to creating a friendly, inclusive environment which is a pleasure to work in. We recognise the rights of all individuals to mutual respect and want to foster an environment where there is an unbiased acceptance of others.
Our policies and practices aim to promote an environment which is free from all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination, and treats people fairly, with dignity and respect.
That’s the sort of place we would want to work, and it’s the environment we want to build with you if you join us - and, since diverse teams are known to be more effective - it’s great business sense too!
THE BORING BIT To be eligible to apply for these positions you must have the right to work in the UK, and will be asked to demonstrate this if an offer is made to you.
Applications will close when sufficient submissions have been received, or by 15th May 2026, whichever is sooner - so we encourage you to apply early! Interviews will be starting latest w/c 1st June 2026 - but we will endeavour to be flexible with dates to maximise candidates ability to attend in person. Part of the interview process will be a short presentation about your scientific background and experience.
No recruiters.
Skills
Protein Purification
Chromatography
SDS-PAGE
Western Blot Analysis
Protein Quantification
Data Analysis
Experiment Documentation
Laboratory Safety
Team Collaboration
Adaptability
Organizational Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Molecular Biology
Cell Biology
Assay Design