Maxion Therapeutics
SENIOR SCIENTIST – TRANSLATIONAL BIOLOGY 12 month FTC (Maternity Cover)
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SENIOR SCIENTIST – TRANSLATIONAL BIOLOGY 12 month FTC (Maternity Cover)
Senior Scientist – Translational Biology
Location: Unity Campus - Pampisford, Cambridge (Office-based) Contract: 12-month Fixed-Term Contract (Maternity Cover)
About Maxion
Maxion is revolutionising biologics by leveraging knottins, nature’s most potent modulators of ion channels and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). By combining knottins with the drug properties of antibodies, we are developing transformative treatments with unmatched specificity and durability for patients with ion channel- and GPCR-driven diseases. Primarily targeting immunological diseases, heart disorders, and chronic pain, our KnotBody® pipeline is pioneering** progress due to its potential to engage previously untapped therapeutic targets.
Founded in 2020 by visionary biotech entrepreneurs and scientists:
- Dr John McCafferty (CTO)
- Dr Aneesh Karatt-Vellatt (CSO)
Dr McCafferty was a co-inventor of antibody phage display, a technology central to the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Sir Gregory Winter.
Maxion is backed by leading international investors and operates near Cambridge, UK, within a team of experts in antibody-based drug discovery and development.
About the Role
We seek a highly organised, proactive Senior Scientist in Translational Biology to temporarily strengthen our team. Reporting to the Director of Translational Biology, this 12-month fixed-term position focuses on immuno-oncology innovation and driving drug discovery efforts through:
- Dynamic, agile problem-solving in a fast-paced R&D environment.
- Collaborative cross-functional teamwork with an emphasis on innovation.
- Support for preclinical and deeper translational validation stages.
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Disciplined contributors—bringing new ideas while adhering to deadlines—will thrive in our culture of excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Model Development:
- Establish in vitro and ex vivo models for immune-related diseases using primary cell material and industry-standard approaches.
- Pharmacological Characterisation:
- Investigate the mechanism of action (MOA) of KnotBody® lead candidates and demonstrate their activity in primary human immune models.
- Collaborative Science:
- Assist in designing, executing, and interpreting data from in vivo preclinical studies.
- Data Interpretation & Communication:
- Translate technical findings into clear documentation and channel insights across teams.
- Operational Excellence:
- Ensure meticulous laboratory notebook records, workflow documentation, and company compliance.
- Troubleshooting & Adaptability:
- Shift dynamically to refine methodologies when science challenges arise.
Candidate Profile
- Essential Qualifications:
- PhD in immunology, pharmacology, or a related biomedical field (with relevant post-doctoral or industry experience).
- Strong foundational knowledge of:
- Immunoglobulin pharmacodynamics (e.g., mechanistic assays for activation, proliferation signatures).
- Primary human cell isolates (PBMCs, related tissues, cultures).
- Molecular quantification techniques: ELISA, MSD, flow cytometry (including multi-colour panels and cell sorting).
- Hands-on proficiency in tissue dissociation and cell culture.
- Practical &Soft Skills:
- Agile and proactive, with a collaborative mindset that adapts swiftly to priorities in a young, high-growth team.
- Highly organised, with strong attention to quality assurance in biological research.
- Effective communicator, able to adjust scientific messaging from lab notes to high-level stakeholder reports.
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Benefits
- Competitive salary, aligned with expertise and experience.
- Generous support package:
- Substantive pension contribution.
- Comprehensive private medical life insurance.
- Cycle-to-Work scheme for sustainable commuting.
- Premium workspace:
- State-of-the-art science park facilities
- On-site gym and café.
- Easy access to Cambridge via regional transport routes.
- Networking & Engagement Opportunities:
- Collaborate with industry leaders and founding scientists renowned for thought leadership.
- Engage with a collaborative, approachable culture.
- Professional autonomies: Your research drive shapes the outcomes valued by UK-based biopharma.
Application Process
Submit your CV and a covering letter answering: Extended question: [include link placeholder] and indicate your competitive salary expectations to: [application platform link placeholder]
Direct applications only—unESCO’s agency access procedures not applicable. Prefer neither list enforcement alternative. Thank you.
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