My clients in Cambridgeshire are looking for a Fluorescence Assay Development Researcher. This role is commutable from Cambridge, Bedford, St. Neots, Huntingdon, Sandy, Yaxley. JOB PURPOSE: To accelerate the development of the company's novel fluorescent tags by evaluating their suitability and performance in a range of biological applications. You will be working as part of an interdisciplinary team that includes chemists, physicists and biochemists. KEY RESULT AREAS: -Develop and optimise biochemical and biophysical assays to evaluate the suitability of novel bio-functionalised fluorescent nanoparticles for end-use applications. -Support the synthesis team in material development of fluorescent nanoparticles by carrying out routine assay work using established protocols. -Effective communication with all team members and the wider organisation to distribute results, discuss problems, and provide next-step recommendations to progress the project. -Accurate recording of all practical work to ensure that new Intellectual Property (IP) is appropriately documented. MAIN ACTIVITIES: -Develop and optimise assays to evaluate the suitability of bio-functionalised nanoparticles for end-use applications, critically analysing and reporting results, identifying trends and anomalies. -Support the synthesis team in material development of novel fluorescent nanoparticles by carrying out assay work using established protocols, providing timely feedback on performance. -Assist in identifying and contacting external experts to accelerate progress and evaluate new proposals. -Initiation, delivery and documentation of high-quality studies and mini projects based on sound scientific hypotheses to achieve R&D targets. -Compilation of results in a timely and accurate manner, in the required format (written, verbal, formal presentation). Presentation of data in one-to-one discussions, team meetings and at wider discussion forums. -Creative contribution to brainstorms, studies and project meeting discussions. -Effective communication with biologists, chemists, physicists, and project leaders, as well as external collaborators. -Identification of IP, filing of invention disclosures, and providing feedback to ensure high quality patent applications. -Where required, assist with market analyses to evaluate unmet needs and potential value propositions. KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS REQUIRED: -A PhD in a relevant biological discipline or alternatively a degree within a relevant biological discipline coupled with equivalent relevant experience in an industrial or academic environment. -Extensive experience within at least one of the following areas is essential: oFluorescence-based assay development and optimisation for the detection of proteins or nucleic acids. oSurface chemistry strategies for immobilisation of proteins and nucleic acids to surfaces. -Additional experience in one or more of the following areas would be highly desirable: oStatistical analysis methods, including use of MiniTab. oMethods for characterizing ligand-protein interactions (binding kinetics, binding affinity). oAutomation of the assay workflow. oSurface functionalisation, purification and characterisation of nanoparticles. oFluorescence-based biochemical techniques (e.g. microarray, cell labelling, gel electrophoresis, flow cytometry). oProgramming for automation of data analysis. Salary circa £36k per annum but flexible for the right candidate. To apply for this Fluorescence Assay Development Researcher role in Cambridgeshire please contact us ASAP!