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Want to help change how the world is fed?

Uncommon began its journey as Higher Steaks and recently underwent a transformative rebranding. Our new brand and identity truly reflects our mission, values, and the positive global influence we aspire to achieve. We transform the global food system by making delicious and nutritious food – from animal cells and plants. We are pioneering the development of cultivated meat to solve some of the world’s growing challenges in health, sustainability and animal welfare.

We're a purpose, science and engineering-driven company dedicated to creating breakthrough technologies that will push the boundaries of what’s possible – delivering innovations that benefit people, the planet and animals.

Our brilliant team are experts in their respective fields, drawn from around the world. We’re passionate, curious, innovative and at the forefront of the ground-breaking work being done in this exciting and rapidly growing sector. Uncommon is a well-funded biotech company; we’ve experienced spectacular growth over the last few years and continue to accelerate every month.

We are growing rapidly again this year so this is a great time to join us and solve one of the most important challenges we face today!

The role

As a Molecular Technician you will play a crucial role in supporting the development and production of our pork belly and bacon using cellular agriculture techniques. You will contribute to the characterisation, quality assurance, cost-effectiveness, scalability, and regulatory compliance of our materials and processes. There will be an opportunity to work on innovative multi-disciplinary projects in cell differentiation as well as broader initiatives in cultivated meat production. This role offers an exciting chance to be at the forefront of innovation and shape the future of the industry.

This full-time role is based in Cambridge, UK, our Differentiation team operates in our labs at the Cambridge Science Park and our state-of-the-art facility on the east side of the city. It may involve variable work schedules, including weekends and non-traditional hours, to meet operational demands.

What you’ll be doing:

• Perform molecular protocols involving RNA, DNA, and protein handling.
• Utilise plasmids and cloning protocols in laboratory procedures.
• Prepare samples for analytical assessments in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Perform analytical and characterisation assays, including qPCR, protein assays (such as western blotting and immunostaining), and other relevant assays, adhering to SOPs.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of SOPs, and support their dissemination.
• Ensure the availability of project materials, including the preparation of stock reagents, and monitor and order consumable stocks as needed.
• Record and report scientific data in compliance with SOPs and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Serve as a role model for the wider laboratory team, demonstrating Good Laboratory Practice.

What we think you need:

• Undergraduate degree in Life Sciences or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Hands-on experience working with DNA, RNA, and proteins using various techniques.
• Experience with core laboratory techniques, including molecular extractions, qPCR, western blotting, and immunostaining.
• Working knowledge of standard laboratory equipment, such as pipettes, pH meters, and centrifuges.
• Proficiency in writing and reviewing SOPs, maintaining thorough record-keeping, and possessing strong organizational and communication skills with a solid work ethic.
• Ability to consistently follow protocols with high reproducibility.
• Initiative, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work autonomously as well as collaboratively within a team.

We’d love it if you also have:

• Proficiency in additional core laboratory techniques, such as flow cytometry, ELISA, cloning, cell-based assays, and transfections.
• Hands-on experience working with mammalian cell cultures, such as ESCs, iPSCs, or MSCs.
• Familiarity with high-throughput automation processes.
• Knowledge of stem cells and differentiation protocols.

Please be advised that we are unable to sponsor visas for this role. Only candidates who already have the full Right to Work in the United Kingdom without sponsorship will be considered for this position.

Reward

Alongside a competitive base salary, all our people get these benefits:

• Share options
• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Enhanced parental leave pay
• Cycle-to-work scheme and gym membership
• Flexible hours
• "Make your work life easier" annual stipend
• Regular team dinners and social activities
• Snacks, fruits, tea, coffee and more!

Uncommon recruits, employs, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, disability, age, and other protected status as required by applicable law. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by incumbents assigned to this job. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the functions, responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position, and Uncommon Limited retains the discretion to modify.