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.
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 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
Lab Technician (12 month contract)
Touchlight is currently seeking a skilled & highly organised Lab Technician to support our R&D teams at our purpose-built labs in Hampton.
This is an exciting position suited to individuals who can effectively support diverse activities in an active research laboratory.
Your principal role will be to provide technical support to researchers that work in areas involving molecular and cell biology, and especially mammalian cell culture.
You have a scientific background or proven experience working in a biological research laboratory, ideally in a tissue culture setting or in a laboratory that works with mammalian cells. While first-hand experience performing techniques in these fields is not a requirement, it would be beneficial for the applicant to be engaged with the science and keen to learn.
You will help maintain our research laboratory to enable it to operate at its highest level of performance, as well as maintaining stocks and organising logistics. You will also be expected to identify ongoing challenges and develop solutions to maintain an optimal work environment.
The role has three main areas of responsibility: A) direct mammalian cell culture support, B) cleaning and re-stocking of tissue culture rooms, and C) maintenance and creation of helpful databases for equipment and consumables used throughout.
You will:
- Keep reagents & chemicals organised properly across fridges, freezers, cupboards and safety cabinets
- Establish databases for reagents, and take charge of ordering communal stocks used in tissue culture
- Maintain tidiness & cleanliness of cell culture rooms
- Ensure reagents and plastic disposables are kept in stock in cell culture rooms
- Maintain cell culture hoods, and replace HEPA filters according to schedule
- Be responsible for the care and maintenance of tissue culture laboratory areas
- Take care of the tissue culture and solid and liquid waste management
- Perform mycoplasma testing, deep-clean of all cell incubators, clean and de-frost fridge/freezers as required
- Use aseptic technique to perform cell culture practices including passaging and cryopreservation of cell lines
- Be responsible for tracking, ordering and filling CO2 and liquid nitrogen stocks
We offer:
- Fantastic opportunity to join Touchlight during its exciting growth!
- An incredible culture, which celebrates creativity and attracts, nurtures, and rewards talented employees
- A competitive C&B package