Job Opportunity
Cell Biologist
A collaboration with MarraBio | Job Ref : MB8
Deadline : 5th May 2025
Start Date :
May 2025
Job Type :
12 Mth Fixed Contract
Salary :
£27,000
Schedule :
Monday - Friday
Job Location :
Belfast
Work Remotely :
No
Job Summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an exceptional candidate to join MarraBio on their journey to develop bespoke and innovative products for the manufacture of cell therapies. This role will involve working within VascVersa Ltd., a Belfast based company developing cell therapies for vascular regeneration and repair, as part of an Innovate UK funded project awarded jointly between the companies.
The focus of the role will be on the on the characterisation of MarraBio’s products, including mimics of growth factor and extracellular matrix proteins, as substrates for the growth and expansion of VascVersa’s ANGICYTE® cells. This will involve validating the biological activity of new and existing MarraBio protein mimics using various cell biology assays developed by VascVersa, as well as conducting combinatorial studies to determine the optimal formulation of MarraBio’s materials for the production of ANGICYTE® cells. A key aspect of the role will be working closely with the team at VascVersa, and liasing with the wider MarraBio team based in Newcastle upon Tyne. Although most work is expected to take place during standard working hours, there may be occasions where out of hours or weekend work is required in order to maintain the cells
About MarraBio:
MarraBio is a new company which is developing a ground-breaking technology for the manufacture of recombinant proteins at ultra-low cost and with vastly superior functionality. Our patented technology, which has been exclusively licenced from Newcastle University, has the potential to transform rapidly expanding sectors including the production of cultivated meat and to create a new class of recombinant proteins which combine multiple functional properties.
This builds on over ten years of research led by Professor Jeremy Lakey and allows us to design, engineer and make bacterial protein polymers for a range of markets. Our lead products contain the biological messages that cells need to grow, divide and behave properly. In other research we are developing protein complexes for advanced diagnostics and therapies.
Cells grown on an industrial scale for research, agricultural or therapeutic use need the right molecular signals. We provide a multi-functional, cost-effective solution in a single, easy to use material and proteins produced with our technology are being evaluated by numerous academic and commercial teams. We brought our first products to market in June 2024 and will be launching several other exciting products throughout 2025.
About VascVersa:
VascVersa is an innovative regenerative medicine company based in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
We are a spin out from Queen’s University in Belfast. At VascVersa we are developing exciting new cell therapies that promote vascular regeneration and repair.
Our ANGICYTE® technology has the potentially to transform healthcare systems by restoring life where it is needed most. We are a small, dynamic team of scientists, academics, and advisors focussed on clinical translation of our exciting therapies.
Key Responsibilities:
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To maintain relevant stocks of chemicals and media
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To analyse, interpret and report data
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To operate laboratory equipment and ensure its maintenance
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To maintain accurate records of research activities and results.
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To present results in written reports and oral presentations at team meetings
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To be responsible for the growth and maintenance of mammalian cells.
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To design and perform experiments under the supervision of the VascVersa and MarraBio teams.
Essential Skills:
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Experience in buffer and media preparation
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Experience in standard mammalian cell culture
(e.g. passaging, sterile working, cell counting etc.) -
Experience in standard cell biology assays
(e.g. cell viability, light microscopy, western blot etc.) -
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Desirable Skills:
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Experience in working with proteins (e.g. SDS-PAGE, digital tools, spectroscopy)
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Experience in working with adherent cells, particularly vascular cells
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Comfortable working with human blood
Personal Attributes:
The ideal candidate would:
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Be adaptable
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Be able to work independently
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Have excellent attention to detail
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Have demonstrable decision-making skills
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Be able to analyse, interpret, and report experimental findings
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Be familiar with commonly used software and be able to learn specialised IT skills.
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Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
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Enjoy working in a cooperative team environment
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Be comfortable working with teams spread across two locations
Education and Training:
BSc in Biochemistry or related science discipline in progress. Prior experience in industrial/commercial settings desirable but not required.