Research Assistant

Why Spur?

Gene therapy is at an inflection point. Amidst the noise of countless emerging modalities, we've been hard at work refining our science and advancing our programs with quiet determination and a bold ambition to unlock the true potential of gene therapy to change the trajectory of more patients' lives. Come join Spur's dedicated team of scientists, physicians and other professionals who are singularly focused on using cutting-edge science and technology to transform the treatment of serious and debilitating chronic diseases.

What We Are Trying to Accomplish

We are a clinical-stage biotech company developing transformative adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated gene therapies. Founded in 2015, Spur is focused on developing innovative, one-time treatments that set new standards of care. Our integrated gene therapy platform includes in-house capabilities in research, protein engineering and clinical development, and we optimize every component of our product candidates to develop first- and best-in-class gene therapies. We are currently advancing a highly differentiated gene therapy candidate in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial in people with Gaucher disease. We are working on additional programs in research, with a focus on CNS and cardiovascular diseases, to reach even more patients with our potentially life-changing treatments. Spur is global, with research facilities and offices in Stevenage, UK, and offices in Boston and New York.

How We Will Do It

We are relentless in our pursuit of transformative medicines for patients. We take innovation seriously and know we need to be bold both in our science and in every aspect of our work. We also know we can only achieve these things together, so we act as one Spur and expect that of each colleague in the company. We always do the right thing – the trust of patients and their caregivers is critical to our success. If you have an entrepreneurial mindset, are willing to work hard to transform the lives of patients, and share our values, then Spur could be the place for you.

Role Purpose

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Research Assistant to join the Research team at Spur Therapeutics. This is a laboratory-based role within Vector Design to develop and produce DNA vectors for exploratory and pre-clinical research projects. The successful candidate will learn new skills, grow, and develop gene therapy vectors in a team pursuing life-changing medicines for patients.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES (INCLUDING ANY LINE REPORTS)

• The Research Assistant will work independently and as part of a team in this lab-based role.

• Development of the AAV vector genome, produce data and DNA constructs supporting all aspects of AAV-based gene therapy development, across multiple teams and projects

• Work collaboratively with team members, project teams and external vendors, for vector design and production to support project requirements in a timely manner

• Stay up to date with the scientific literature and developments in the field. Promote and implement new methods, technologies, and processes to improve workflows and ensure best practice

• Support mutual training and development within the team

• Deliver project documentation, reports and record keeping in a timely manner

• Present work clearly and appropriately, for internal and external audiences

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, quality standards and procedures in line with Spur policies

• Other duties appropriate to the scope and grade of the post

QUALIFICATION, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• A bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biomedical sciences or a relevant field is essential

• Higher qualifications or 1+ years of relevant laboratory experience is highly desirable

• Proficiency in molecular biology, cloning and DNA manipulation techniques

• Hands-on experience with software for molecular biology, statistics, omics data, bioinformatics or programming languages (such as R or Python)

• Experience with AAV vector genome or production development is desirable

• Strong critical, scientific, and strategic thinking skills; data-driven problem solving and decision-making abilities

• Adaptable and willing to develop new skills

• Good observation skills and attention to detail in keeping of accurate records

• Exceptional communication skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team

• Evidence of scientific accomplishments in the form of publications and presentations

• Experience interpreting and presenting data to internal and external stakeholders, and meetings

• Demonstrable ability to work in multi-disciplinary, multi-cultural team