Scientist II, Translational Research (Fixed Term Contract - 12 months)

Orchard Therapeutics, recently acquired by Kyowa Kirin, is a pioneering company in the field of cell and gene therapy where the Translational Research Department develops novel and innovative applications of Orchard's platform of hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy. This role will be based in the heart of London in our Hammersmith Research facility.

The Scientist will perform experimental laboratory duties related to the design and development of experimental research models to evaluate the feasibility and the efficacy of cell and gene therapies in brain disease models and/or other research programs under development by the Translational Research Team. The role will specifically involve performing pre-clinical research using in vitro cell culture and analytical techniques, and the use of in vivo models required to evaluate the Translational Research Team's expanding projects in developing new therapeutic targets and approaches to treat brain diseases.

The Scientist will work closely with the Directors & Senior Scientists to design and plan experiments, establish and run experimental studies, ensure compliance in documentation and reporting, and provide key support for lab functions.

Key Elements and Responsibilities

· Contribute towards the design, planning and conduct of experimental pre-clinical research models and studies for assigned research programs.

· Perform in vitro and in vivo experiments in the laboratory, including data analysis, interpretation and presentation.

· Oversee the preparation, review and completion of study reports and protocol SOPs.

· Work with other scientists to develop new ideas and solutions to research problems.

· Contribute to the overall activities of the research team and department as required, including laboratory duties, attendance and participation in group and department meetings.

Required Knowledge and Skills

· Extensive experience of working within the field of brain cancer and/or neurodegeneration:

o extensive expertise in in vivo models of brain diseases

o extensive experience in in vitro cell culture, using cell lines, primary cells and cell isolation methods

o knowledge of immunology / immuno-oncology

o experience of conducting intra-cerebral cell injection and immunohistochemistry techniques

· Experience in the practical application of advanced in vitro and ex vivo immunological assays and analytical methods including but not limited to flow cytometry, ELISA, western blot and immunofluorescence (IF), PCR.

· Keen attention to detail, with an excellent analytical ability to interpret results and complete study reports.

· Ability to work in a laboratory independently and as part of a team, to design and develop protocols and SOPs.

· IT skills including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Graphpad, experience of working with an ELN would be preferred.

· Ability to present own work in a clear and structured way at team and departmental level meetings.

Qualifications/ Experience

Candidate must possess:

· PhD (or equivalent) with focus on a relevant biological discipline is essential.

· At least 5 years of experience of laboratory work in cell biology, molecular biology and in vivo mouse models is essential.

· An active Home Office PIL.