Job description
Scientist, Bioconjugation (Research and Development)
About Iksuda Therapeutics
Iksuda Therapeutics is a drug development company specialising in the development of stable, safe, and superior Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs). Our ADCs target difficult-to-treat cancers, including those that are resistant or refractory to current therapies.
We are building a pipeline of ADCs centred on:
- PermaLink® – proprietary conjugation chemistry for improved ADC stability
- Novel ultra-potent toxins for improved tumour killing
- Novel antibodies targeted towards well-selected antigens associated primarily with solid tumours.
Our first wave of ADC programmes include antibodies with proven premise in ADC formats and novel DNA damaging payloads.
We are working with leading research institutions in the US and Europe to develop exciting new therapies for the future. We are flexible in our approach to collaboration and welcome discussions with research groups who have novel ADC-relevant programmes.
We have developed a series of high-value ADC assets, which are available for collaborative research and license.
Job Summary
An outstanding opportunity has arisen for the right candidate to join Iksuda’s highly skilled team and contribute to the successful growth and positioning of the company as a thought leader in this technology arena.
Fulfilling a lab-based role, the successful candidate will report to Senior Scientists in the Bioconjugation team, and will have significant input into the technical strategy whilst undertaking data review, report generation and external presentations to support Iksuda’s technology development and business activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Research and development that aligns with the Company’s strategy for the development of potentially clinically differentiated ADCs in hematological and solid cancers including (but not limited to):
- The conjugation of small molecules (e.g., cytotoxic drugs) to protein and antibodies.
- To perform purification of antibodies and ADCs by column chromatography (e.g., HIC, SEC).
- To analyse proteins and conjugates using analytical chromatography techniques (e.g., HIC, PLRP SEC), UV-Vis spectrophotometry, and LC-MS.
- To perform the analysis and interpretation of analytical results and effectively communicate these findings to relevant internal and external parties.
- Liaising with Cell Biology and Chemistry teams for further validation of ADCs.
- To contribute to technology development strategies and maintain a culture of continuous improvement and scientific excellence.
Skills, Knowledge & Experience
It is essential that the successful candidate possess:
- Excellent technical skills and attention to detail
- Experience in handling and analysing protein samples
- Working knowledge of appropriate analytical methods (e.g., HPLC, UV-vis spectrometry, Western Blot, SDS-PAGE, immunoassays)
It is desirable that the successful candidate possess:
- Hands on experience in protein purification (e.g., SEC, desalting, HIC chromatography, AKTA systems).
- Knowledge of bioconjugation techniques (e.g., lysine and cysteine coupling)
- Knowledge of biopharmaceutical manufacturing or products
- Knowledge of Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs)
- High level IT skills
Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate would:
- Be forward thinking and adaptable
- Have excellent attention to detail
- Have demonstrable decision making and problem-solving skills
- Be highly collaborative, self-motivated, team-oriented, with strong interpersonal skills
- Have excellent oral and written communication skills
Education and Training
A minimum of BSc in Biology, Chemistry or Biochemistry is required, but additional academic qualifications and experience in academia or industry are welcomed, where training, job title and salary, will be tailored accordingly.
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: £26,000.00-£30,000.00 per year
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Newcastle upon Tyne: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:
- Bachelor's (preferred)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 29/09/2023