pDNA Development Scientist

About Us

Do you want to work with a team that is changing science and enabling the next generation of genetic medicines?

The stellar growth in cell and gene therapy has accelerated the need for a better quality, faster and more robust DNA manufacturing technology.

Touchlight has created a new DNA vector for use in advanced genetic medicines that is safer and more efficacious than conventional plasmid DNA. Our unique platform also enables DNA production at unprecedented scale, speed and purity.

We believe that DNA is fundamental to the future of medicine and our CDMO has a focus on the following areas:

• Nucleic acid medicines (mRNA and DNA).
• Ex-vivo and in-vivo cell and genetic medicines.
• Gene therapy using viral vectors and gene editing.
• Autologous and allogenic cell therapy.

Role Overview:

Touchlight is currently seeking an experienced pDNA Development Scientist to join its Molecular Biology Team to develop and optimise processes and platforms for the starting material of dbDNA™ – plasmid. This is an exciting, fast-paced environment suited to initiative-taking individuals who can contribute to and successfully work in a multidisciplinary team.

Your role will be to optimise current processes for the amplification and purification of plasmid templates, to help develop platforms for technical challenges surrounding scale up, and designing studies to provide solutions for clients' needs. There will also be an element of genetically engineering plasmid DNA in creative ways, with a big focus on purity, quality, and yield - allowing the best attributes of the downstream process to be harnessed.

Skills and Experience:

• A postgraduate degree level qualification in Molecular Biology, Microbiology (or a related discipline)
• A minimum of two years industrial experience working in a related field
• Experience in setup and operation of a bioreactor (or similar) system is essential
• Experience in operating other liquid handling automation systems would be advantageous
• Well-versed in DNA purification techniques at medium-large scales, knowledge of other biological purification methods would also be advantageous
• Experience in aseptic technique and controlled environments
• Familiarity with industry quality standards, such as ISO/ cGMP is desirable. Experience working within a Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) or Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) environment would be advantageous
• Ability to design experiments independently and document key information in report formats
• The successful candidate will be bringing ideas to life, and must therefore be engaged with science, adaptable to new approaches, and eager to work with a fast-moving team.

Touchlight Benefits

Touchlight is a successful scale-up business with a record of world-leading innovation and a welcoming, entrepreneurial culture. We make Touchlight an extraordinary place to work by providing our employees with incredible facilities, flexible working and a competitive benefits and remuneration package.

A Place for Everyone

We believe diversity drives innovation and for that reason we strongly encourage those from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Touchlight. We are an equal opportunity employer and aim to build a workforce that is truly representative of the communities in which we operate and our customers.

If you need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please speak with the HR team who will be happy to support you.