Principal Scientist, cell-based assays and flow cytometry - Analytical Development & Technologies

Job description:

We are at the centre of the rapidly growing cell and gene therapy sector. We deliver life-changing therapies to patients, and so can you.

We are currently recruiting for a Principal scientist to join the Analytical Development and Technologies group. The purpose of this role is to lead the development of cell-based vector potency assays for use in GMP batch release testing and support the group lead with management of ongoing projects.

Your responsibilities in this role would be:

• Leading the development and qualification and transfer of cell-based vector potency assays for use in GMP batch release testing, with a particular focus on CAR-T products to support our clients.


• Support the group lead in the management of multiple projects, commercial activities and with the oversight of GMP flow cytometry testing.


• Act as a subject matter expert in potency assays, including troubleshooting as required, providing guidance to less experienced members of the team and independently leading SME discussions with client teams.


• Development of new analytical assays, improvement, and optimisation of current analytical assays for lentiviral characterisation.


• Lead the delivery of continuous improvement projects to ensure that the groups processes and approaches remain in line with regulatory guidance and scientific developments.


• Support/mentoring other scientists within the department.

We are looking for:

• Minimum BSc in a Bioscience or similar with relevant additional experience in either industry or academia.


• Proven expertise in immunology and immunological assay development, specific experience with CAR T or T cell immunology would be an advantage.


• Extensive laboratory experience in immunological methods including flow cytometry, tissue culture, ELISA and luminescence assays.


• An ability to adapt knowledge and experience to novel areas to support our diverse client portfolio.


• Experience with project management is essential with experience working on client focused projects an advantage.


• Experience or understanding of working in a regulated environment (e.g. GMP, GCLP etc) would be an advantage.


• Knowledge of and experience implementing AQBD/ DOE is preferred.


• Knowledge in Virology and gene therapy products and experience working with viral vectors would be an advantage.


• Ability to work accurately in a busy and demanding environment, and to manage competing priorities of both own and others work.


• Credible and confident communicator (written & verbal) at all levels.


• Self-motivated with the ability to work proactively using own initiative.


• Demonstrates ability to work well in a team as well as independently.

About Us:

OXB is a quality and innovation-led viral vector CDMO with a mission to enable its clients to deliver life changing therapies to patients around the world. One of the original pioneers in cell and gene therapy, we have more than 25 years of experience in viral vectors; the driving force behind the majority of gene therapies.

OXB collaborates with some of the world’s most innovative pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, providing viral vector development and manufacturing expertise in lentivirus, adeno-associated virus (AAV) and adenoviral vectors. OXB’s world-class capabilities span from early-stage development to commercialisation. These capabilities are supported by robust quality-assurance systems, analytical methods, and depth of regulatory expertise.

What’s in it for you:

• Highly competitive total reward packages


• Wellbeing programmes


• Development opportunities


• Welcoming, friendly, supportive colleagues


• A diverse and inclusive working environment


• Our values are: Responsible, Responsive, Resilient, Respect


• State of the art laboratory and manufacturing facilities

We want you to feel inspired every day. We’re future-focused and our business is growing rapidly. We succeed together through passion, commitment and teamwork, and so can you.

Collaborate. Contribute. Change lives

We offer:

Oxford Biomedica is a quality and innovation-led viral vector CDMO that enables its clients to deliver life-changing therapies to patients around the world. One of the original pioneers in cell and gene therapy, Oxford Biomedica has more than 25 years of experience in viral vectors, the driving force behind the majority of gene therapies.

Cell and gene therapy is the treatment of disease by the delivery of therapeutic genetic material (DNA or RNA), into a patient’s cells. One highly effective approach to delivering genetic information is to re-engineer existing viruses to be safe delivery vehicles (vectors) to insert the genetic material into patients’ cells. This can be achieved either by directly administering the vector to the patient (often referred to as in vivo gene therapy), or by first introducing the genetic material to cells or tissue outside of the body, before administering the cells or tissue into the patient (often referred to as ex vivo gene therapy or gene-modified cell therapy).

Oxford Biomedica collaborates with some of the world's most innovative pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, providing viral vector development and manufacturing expertise in lentivirus, adeno-associated virus (AAV) and adenoviral vectors. Oxford Biomedica's world-class capabilities span from early-stage development to commercialisation. These capabilities are supported by robust quality-assurance systems, analytical methods and depth of regulatory expertise.