Associate Scientist - CNS Biology

We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist/Technician to join our CNS Biology team. This laboratory-based role will focus on conducting in vitro studies using human iPSC-derived neuronal models to support the discovery and development of novel therapeutics. The role will report to the Associate Director, Biology and involve:

• Establish, maintain and differentiate human iPSC-derived neuronal cultures, supporting their maturation and ongoing maintenance for compound screening and mechanistic studies.
• Perform routine hands-on culture of iPSC-derived neurons, including cell seeding, media preparation, differentiation, maturation, passaging where appropriate, cryopreservation, thawing and quality control.
• Support pharmacological studies, including compound preparation, dose-response experiments and analysis of treatment effects using biochemical and cellular assays including ELISA, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry.
• Support the development and optimisation of robust neuronal cellular models and assays for CNS drug discovery.
• Maintain high standards of laboratory organisation, reagent preparation, equipment maintenance and inventory management. This is primarily a lab-based role (>75%), with the expectation of being onsite in Hammersmith for a minimum of four days per week. Qualifications & experience
• BSc or MSc in a relevant biological discipline, such as neuroscience, biochemistry, pharmacology, genetics or a related field.
• Substantial hands-on experience culturing and maintaining human iPSC-derived neurons is essential.
• Hands-on experience differentiating human iPSCs into neuronal cell types and supporting neuronal maturation is strongly preferred.
• Candidates should have experience working routinely with iPSC-derived neuronal cultures, rather than solely non-neuronal iPSC-derived cell types.
• Experience in molecular and cellular laboratory techniques including immunofluorescence/immunocytochemistry, Western blotting, ELISA and other protein-based assays, RNA/DNA extraction, qPCR/RT-qPCR and cell viability assays.
• Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary drug-discovery teams to deliver key data packages.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with strong interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Comfortable working in an early-stage environment and dealing with ambiguity and uncertainty.
• Experience in laboratory health and safety management would be desirable.