Scientist I (Upstream)

LGC’s Diagnostics and Genomics (D&G) Business Unit encompasses a number of entities focussed on the development and manufacture of quality solutions and component materials for the extended life sciences industry. We partner with in vitro diagnostic (IVD) assay developers, pharmaceutical, biotech, CRO, and academic institutions from concept and early-stage research, through expedited product development, and onwards into routine clinical use. Lab-based and diagnostic professionals across a broad range of disciplines rely on LGC’s products to support accurate and reliable results.

LGC’s Oxford Technology Park site (formerly The Native Antigen Company) sits within the D&G Lucigen brand and operates as an ISO 9001-accredited facility. We manufacture and supply antigens and antibodies that form key components in vaccine research and in the accurate diagnosis of a wide range of infectious and non-infectious diseases.

Join LGC as a Scientist I (Upstream) and be part of our outstanding team committed to advancing scientific research! This outstanding opportunity lets you support TNAC’s R&D function by adhering to SOPs in molecular biology, cell culture, and protein purification, mainly within a lab-based environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Molecular Biology: Construct expression vectors using techniques such as RNA and DNA extraction, preparative and analytical PCR, restriction digestion, agarose electrophoresis, Gibson assembly, and preparation of transfection-grade plasmids. Complete Sanger and nanopore sequencing flawlessly.
• Bacterial Cell Culture: Prepare growth media, introduce genetic material into bacteria, assess and improve expression conditions, and perform recombinant protein expression. Collect and conduct quality control testing on raw materials.
• Mammalian Cell Culture: Sustain cell lines, carry out transfections on various scales, and collect and QC test raw materials.
• Baculovirus Infection and Insect Cell Culture: Maintain cell lines, develop recombinant baculovirus, conduct infections, and ensure harvesting and QC testing of raw materials.
• Protein Purification and Analysis: Prepare buffers, carry out small-scale spin column purification of proteins, conduct SDS-PAGE, western blotting, and ELISA.
• Record Keeping and Reporting: Maintain meticulous records and write detailed reports. Report day-to-day results to line managers and help manage stock levels of high-turnover items and reagents.
• Collaborative Engagement: Participate in regular supervisor meetings and present at weekly lab meetings. Understand and convey relevant published research.

• Educational Background: Degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related Life Sciences field or equivalent 
• Experience: Practical laboratory experience gained through industry, academic research, placements, or postgraduate studies.
• Technical Skills: Strong understanding of molecular biology and cell culture techniques.
• Diligent: Outstanding attention to detail and scientific record keeping.
• Problem-Solving: A proactive, organized, and collaborative approach to problem solving.
• Innovation: Enthusiasm for learning new technologies and contributing to innovative research programmes.

At LGC, we believe in encouraging a collaborative and inclusive environment where your proven skills and ambition can thrive. If you are dedicated to achieving flawless results and eager to contribute to world-class research, we want you on our team!

The applicant will also be able to demonstrate the following traits in line with LGC’s Core Values:

• Passion: Pride in our achievements engenders passion for our work and translates into our shared ambition to make the world a safer place.
• Curiosity: We constantly look forward to what's next: our curiosity for today's discoveries makes tomorrow's innovations possible.
• Integrity: A commitment to high ethical standards has been at the heart of LGC since we first started testing the integrity of products in 1842.
• Brilliance: We strive to be the very best in everything we say and do. We exceed customers' expectations through innovation and pioneering science.
• Respect: We respect gender, age, nationality, religion, and individuality - our diversity is our strength.