Xterna is a venture-backed start-up using alternative nucleic acids to revolutionise targeted drug delivery.
About us
Xterna develops cell-specific binders composed of modified nucleic acids (eg. XNAs) to deliver drug cargo to the right cell types. Our methodology enables candidate screening with unprecedented speed and modularity in vitro and in vivo. Xterna is now expanding beyond its founding team, searching for individuals matched to our core values: compassion, integrity and scientific curiosity (and if you are obsessed with nucleic acids or targeted delivery, welcome).
To apply please head to our website: www.xterna.bio/careers and complete the form. If you experience any issues please get in touch, jess@xterna.uk.
Responsibilities
* Establishing and performing validation assays of candidates. In vitro testing of Xterna candidates, monitoring for on-target binding, immune cell activation and target-cell killing effects.
* Document and communicate results in a timely and clear manner using our ELN system.
* Perform research with high scientific rigor. From wet lab experiments to data analysis, we expect all work to the highest of standards.
* Remain knowledgeable in the field, keeping up to date in the fields of nucleic acids and cell targeting applications.
* To act as a mentor and a mentee in both professional development and technical training to members of the team.
* Contributing to day-to-day lab running– such as monitoring stock to aid timely ordering, contributing to SOP writing.
Need-to-have
* PhD in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry (or related field) or a relevant degree with at least 2-3 years of subsequent relevant hands-on experience.
* Experience working with immune cells in vitro (for example, extracting and handing immune cell types, assaying immune cell activation or target cell killing).
* Experience in flow cytometry.
* Experience of mammalian cell culture
* Self-motivated, scientifically curious and excited to work in a fast-paced environment.
* Driven and excited by challenge, and open to change. In a start-up things can quickly change; we may pivot, and you may suddenly need to develop a new skill set. This should excite you.
* Detail-oriented, organised, with exceptional communication and presentation skills.
* Candidates for a Senior Scientist position should have some experience in start-up/small biotech.
* Right to work in the UK
A bonus-to-have
* Expertise in measurements by ELISA, EMSA or SPR.
* Experience in assay development of immune engager candidates.
* Experience in molecular cloning.
* Experience in tumour model selection and in vivo experimental design.
* Experience in handing and manipulating nucleic acids (eg oligos, aptamers) or selections (eg SELEX).
* Experience with protein expression and purification in E.coli.
* A track record of scientific publication in the field.
If you do not fulfil all the requirements, please do not hesitate to reach out and tell us more about your specific experience! Our perfect candidate does not need to tick every box.
You’ll love this role if:
* You want to work in a small team. You’ll be reporting directly to the founders (and you’ll find the CSO with you at the bench).
* You want to feel a tangible impact in your work – helping drive scientific direction, and company culture. Your voice will be heard.
* You are self-driven – we are a small team with no time to waste. We trust that you will get on with it!
Why join us
Xterna is a highly ambitious startup with a core founding team and strong advisory network, driven by science that has the promise for global patient impact, in addition to building a collaborative and curious workplace environment. We are a small but growing team; you are joining at a time where you will feel a tangible contribution to the development of the core science, and the company itself.
Xterna is an equal opportunities employer, offering competitive London salaries, flexible working hours, pension scheme and future additional benefits (and by joining early, you can help shape what you’d like to see!) Ideal start date of early March-April, but this can be discussed.
To apply please head to our website: www.xterna.bio/careers and complete the form. If you experience any issues please get in touch, jess@xterna.uk.