Cell Biologist (12-month Mat Cover FTC)

We are expanding our in vitro cell biology capabilities at our new state-of-the-art laboratories in Milton Park and are seeking an experienced, motivated, and dynamic individual to join the Primary Pharmacology team. This team provides critical data driving our drug discovery projects and is in charge of conceiving, developing, and executing cellular assays for a range of target classes, often in areas of novel biology. You will be given the freedom to design, plan and execute a variety of experiments ensuring that assays are fit-for-purpose, and that data is appropriately quality-controlled. In our newly built laboratories, we have access to a wide array of assay technologies (FRET, luminescence, FACs, imaging) with automation capabilities and are continually striving to deploy the latest technologies and develop ever more efficient processes. For this reason, we're seeking an adaptable scientist who thrives when working across multiple projects. Please note there are two temporary positions available to provide maternity cover for 12 months, ideally starting in October and December. These roles are onsite, based at our Milton Park site in Oxford (OX14 4SD), with occasional flexibility to work from home in the UK. You will have the opportunity to:

• Develop assays to help drive development of therapeutic small molecules with a focus on compound characterisation and the rapid identification of candidate molecules.
• Learn the latest scientific developments, evaluate new technologies and will have the opportunity to present both internally and externally.
• Gain exposure to all scientific disciplines within the drug discovery process from target validation to candidate selection.
  
  BSc / MSc / PhD in Oncology, Biology, Pharmacology, or a related discipline degree or significant relevant experience, preferably in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• 2+ years professional experience (Postdoc or industrial) in a cell biology role.
• Practical experience with sterile techniques, cell culture, In vitro assay development and assay optimisation.
• Practical experience of cell-based assays (such as proliferation, cell binding, cytokine release, and tumour killing), and screening including dose-response relationships.
• Knowledge of a wide range of assay technologies such as FRET, flow cytometry and imaging.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with ability to communicate technical information to a non-specialist audience.
  
  Exscientia is an AI-driven precision medicine company committed to discovering, designing and developing the best possible drugs in the fastest and most effective manner. Exscientia developed the first-ever functional precision oncology platform to successfully guide treatment selection and improve patient outcomes in a prospective interventional clinical study, as well as to progress AI-designed small molecules into the clinical setting. Our internal pipeline is focused on leveraging our precision medicine platform in oncology, while our partnered pipeline broadens our approach to other therapeutic areas. By pioneering a new approach to medicine creation, we believe the best ideas of science can rapidly become the best medicines for patients.
  
  Join our inclusive, collaborative and intellectually stimulating organisation with an exciting mission and strong values.
• As a learning organisation, we provide access to learning and development opportunities and will place you at the forefront of your career growth at Exscientia.
• We employ brilliant people so we pay highly competitive salaries.
• Enjoy our generous 28 days holiday allowance plus public holidays, with flexibility to carry over or purchase extra holidays.
• We also offer flexible working to find a healthy work-life balance that works for you.
• We're leading the way in progressive leave offering enhanced policies so you feel supported no matter the life event. This includes generous parental, fertility, menopause and family emergency leave, and much more.
• As a healthcare company, we understand the importance of health and wellbeing so we provide comprehensive private health insurance, dental and vision benefits for you and your family.
• We also provide plenty of access to mental health support including therapy and counselling sessions plus an employee assistance program for help with lifestyle issues such as bereavement, family problems or money management.
• To help safeguard the future for you and your loved ones, we also offer pension and life cover.
• Have fun with colleagues at our in-person and remote social events! Get competitive at a quiz or bake off, or relax at a movie night or picnic - there's something for everyone.
• Collaborate with your team at our uplifting offices and choose a design-led breakout space to inspire creativity. Help yourself to free drinks, snacks and freshly ground coffee in our fully stocked kitchens. Some of the best ideas start with a coffee break!
• Feel inspired in our high spec labs where you will use state-of-the-art equipment and instruments that empower you to do your best work.
• Learn more about why our team enjoy working at Exscientia here
DEIB At Exscientia, we are committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where every employee belongs. We celebrate and value the diversity of our team, recognising that our differences drive our creativity and innovation forward. This applies to differences in ethnicity, nationality, cultural heritage, age, religion, mental and physical ability, neurodiversity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital and civil partnership status, family status, and socioeconomic background. We are committed to providing fair treatment, opportunity and advancement for all employees, and we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to bring their best selves to work.