Research Assistant, Biochemistry

Type:
Permanent (>4 years funding guaranteed)

Reporting to:
Head of Protein and Drug Discovery

Bind Research is an innovative not-for-profit research organisation at the forefront of developing tools and datasets to characterise small-molecule interactions with intrinsically disordered proteins. Based just a short walk from Kings Cross station, Bind leverages interdisciplinary methods that span experimental biophysics – with a strong focus on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy – as well as computational approaches and cellular studies.

You will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this cutting-edge research initiative from the beginning.

Join Bind Research and help push the limits of drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins. If you are dedicated to supporting the advancement science and technology in an innovative environment, we encourage you to apply!

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our interdisciplinary team focused on drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). In this role, you will support innovative research programs within our biochemistry laboratory dedicated to the development of methods for screening and characterizing molecular interactions of small molecules with disordered protein targets. Working closely with senior scientists, you will support general laboratory operations and contribute to the production of proteins used in downstream assays for compound screening and structural or biophysical analyses.

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to be a part of a growing not-for-profit research organisation dedicated to making disordered proteins druggable and thereby unlocking new therapeutic avenues.

• Prepare laboratory buffers and stock solutions
• Prepare culture media, including media for isotopically labelled expression of proteins
• Coordinate autoclaving of media and buffers with the building services
• Perform labelling of proteins and reagents, for example with fluorescent tags

• Manage laboratory logistics, including coordinating deliveries, waste management and relationship with building management
• Maintain reagent stock levels, place orders, and ensure a smooth supply of reagent and consumables in the lab
• Assist with laboratory safety practices and surveillance
• Maintain up to date safety documentation
• Perform routine equipment maintenance including centrifuges, pH meter calibration, AKTA FPLC systems
• Coordinate the preparation and shipment of samples to external facilities and collaborators
• Produce and maintain plasmid DNA and competent cell stocks
• Undertake expression of recombinant proteins in
  
  E. coli
• Evaluate protein quality using analytical methods such as SDS-PAGE,UV-Vis spectroscopy and size-based measurements
• Purify proteins using established protocols including affinity, ion exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography on an AKTA FPLC
• Work closely with scientists and other team members to provide high quality samples and reagents for biochemical or biophysical assays
• Support the management of wet lab operations and contribute to continuous process improvements
• Maintain accurate and well-organised documentation of results, protocols, and reagent inventories

Thrive in a dynamic, start-up-style environment where initiative and flexibility in your role are valued.

We encourage applications from biochemists, biophysicists, and individuals with relevant transferable skills who are enthusiastic about our mission to make disordered proteins druggable, even if they do not meet every requirement listed below. We believe innovation thrives through diverse perspectives and welcome candidates from both academic and industry backgrounds.

• BSc or equivalent experience in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field
• Hands‑on experience in a wet‑lab environment
• Experience in reagent and buffer preparation, and aseptic technique
• Experience with recombinant protein expression in
  
  E. coli

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability…