Job Description

Our Organization

FairJourney Biologics acquired IONTAS in 2020 which is now one of our key innovation and technology centres. This site is located at the Unity Campus, south of Cambridge, a growing hub for life sciences and technology organizations. FairJourney Biologics operates across three global sites (Porto - Portugal, Cambridge - UK, and San Francisco - USA), and is dedicated to discovering high-quality biologics drug candidates for our partners, providing solutions to their technical challenges and helping them bring life-changing medicines to patients. Our antibody discovery and engineering services have benefitted over 200 biotech and pharma partners worldwide. With more than 1,000 completed projects utilising a range of molecular formats and 20 clinical-stage molecules, we are internationally recognized for tackling novel and challenging discovery programs. Our expertise in Phage and Mammalian Display platforms enables us to push the boundaries of antibody discovery, driving innovation for next-generation therapeutics.

The Role

We are seeking 1-2 highly capable and enthusiastic Senior Research Associate(s) to join the expanding Discovery & Engineering Unit at our South Cambridgeshire site (DEU III).

This will be an onsite and predominantly lab-based role. Working within a project team, you will independently execute antibody discovery experiments for client projects, delivering first class results. You will apply your expertise to troubleshoot technical challenges as they arise and provide training to junior team members. Teamwork is a key skill for this role, as you will be collaborating with colleagues to plan and deliver project work, as well as supporting the technical development of others. A positive and solution focused mindset is required to deliver on a wide range of innovative and intellectually challenging projects.

Key Responsibilities

Contribute to antibody discovery programs using phage and/or mammalian display and relevant screening assays, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality outcomes. Independently plan and execute high quality experiments to agreed timelines. Collect, analyse, and interpret scientific data to inform decision-making. Provide training and mentoring to junior colleagues and new hires. Present findings and progress updates to senior management and partners.

Your Profile

BSc or MSc in a relevant field (e.g. molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences). 3+ years of hands-on lab experience, preferably gained within the antibody discovery field, with an understanding of therapeutic antibody formats, structures, and sequences. In-depth understanding and practical research experience of molecular biology and cellular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR and mammalian cell culture. Demonstrable experience in in vitro cell-based assays (e.g. reporter, TDCC). Experience in biochemical assays, (e.g. ELISA, BLI, SPR). Excellent data analysis, interpretation and problem-solving skills. Ability to plan time and prioritise work. Maintain clear written records in a timely manner. The ability to present and communicate effectively to internal and external stakeholders. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability and desire to build strong collaborative working relationships. Hands-on experience with flow cytometry & FACS is desirable Practical experience in antibody display technologies (e.g. phage/mammalian display) is desirable. Experience of antibody isolation and engineering for optimisation is desirable. Experience in antibody display library construction is desirable.

Be Part of a Global Team

By being part of the FairJourney Biologics family, you will be collaborating with teams in Porto, Cambridge, and San Francisco. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside world-class scientists, share insights across sites, and contribute to groundbreaking antibody discovery projects.

Innovating the Future of Therapeutic Antibodies

IONTAS was co-founded in 2012 by John McCafferty, a pioneer of antibody phage display technology, which contributed to the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. By integrating phage and mammalian display expertise, we deliver high-affinity, developable antibodies that are shaping the future of drug discovery.

Career Development & Growth

As the biopharmaceutical industry continues to evolve, there is a growing reliance on specialized CROs to drive innovation in antibody discovery. With an increasing number of biotech and pharmaceutical companies outsourcing their research, FairJourney Biologics is well positioned for long-term growth and expanding opportunities.

Be part of a dynamic, motivated team at our expanding Cambridge site. Contribute to projects that impact partners, patients, and the broader scientific community.

Competitive Benefits

Attractive salary & benefits package, including pension and life insurance. Generous parental leave policies. Unity Campus is a growing site with a range of perks, including networking events with other local companies, seminars, and an on-site gym with personal training, yoga, and wellness programs.

A Culture That Empowers

We foster an inclusive, collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued. At FairJourney Biologics, your ideas and contributions matter - helping us transform antibody discovery and deliver next-generation therapeutics.

Applications must be submitted directly through our website before August 29th.

Job Type: Full-time

Application question(s):

What are your salary expectations? When would you be available to start?
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