Process Development Scientist

Touchlight is focussed on the enzymatic synthesis of novel DNA formats. Through the Covid pandemic, this quiet revolution has been propelled into the spotlight with the scale-up and proof of concept of RNA and DNA based vaccines. In addition, the stellar growth in viral and non-viral cell and gene therapy discovery and development has accelerated the need for a better quality, faster and more robust DNA manufacturing technology. Our CDMO and technology is built on the conviction that DNA is fundamental to the future of medicine.

By moving away from today's restrictive biological approaches, we have made DNA manufacturing simple. Our unique dbDNA™ (or "doggybone" DNA) vector is optimised for use in advanced genetic medicines, being safer and more efficacious than conventional plasmid DNA. The platform, based on enzymatic technology, enables DNA production at unprecedented scale, speed and purity.

We are leveraging our platform to enable the next generation of Genetic Medicines. Our CDMO Focus is on:

Nucleic Acid Medicines (mRNA & DNA) ex-vivo & in-vivo cell and genetic medicines Gene therapy using viral vectors and gene editing Autologous & Allogenic cell therapy

Touchlight is looking for a highly competent Process Development Scientist to join our

evolving CMC department

. The successful candidate will report to the Process Development Lead and should be familiar with process development techniques.

Process Development Scientist

In this

exciting lab-based role

, the applicant will be responsible for

conducting experiments, generation and capture of high-quality experimental data

to support DNA services commercial operations on time and on budget.

A key responsibility will be to

execute commercial process development projects

from

small scale optimization through pre-GMP pilot batch scales

and supporting programs into production team. The Process Development Scientist is responsible to

report data to clients as well as stakeholders

. In addition, the Process Development Scientist is expected to execute process and product related validation activities.

This is a

highly collaborative role

within the CMC function and across Production and Research/Discovery teams. Opportunities will also be provided to support Protein Development, MSAT, Platform Development and Product Development teams.

With

career progression prospects

as the organisation continues to grow, this is a great opportunity for someone who thrives in a

multidisciplinary laboratory

environment, is efficient in their conduction of experiments/data capture, and who can deliver to the highest standards under the direction of the scientific management team.

You have:

At least MSc qualification in Biochemistry /Biotechnology/ Protein chemistry / Molecular Biology/other relevant discipline. Ideally, 2+ years industrial experience of CMC/Process Development gained in a Biotech and/or CDMO environment, or a PhD in a relevant area A strong industry background in Biochemistry Familiarity with bioprocessing techniques, such as chromatography, tangential flow filtration and filtration, Standard molecular biology techniques and experience with specialised DNA characterisation techniques would be advantageous.

Touchlight Benefits

Touchlight is a successful scale-up business with a record of world-leading innovation and a welcoming, entrepreneurial culture. We make Touchlight an extraordinary place to work by providing our employees with incredible facilities, flexible working and a competitive benefits and remuneration package.

A Place for Everyone

We believe diversity drives innovation and for that reason we strongly encourage those from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Touchlight. We are an equal opportunity employer and aim to build a workforce that is truly representative of the communities in which we operate and our customers.

If you need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please speak with the HR team who will be happy to support you.