Based in the Edinburgh BioQuarter, the company offers specialist preclinical and clinical contract research services to Pharmaceutical companies focussed on Immuno-oncology, Immunology and specialised Multiplex Histology.
Job Summary:
The position advertised is a Histology Senior Scientist role which will involve delivery of routine histological procedures, as well as immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent staining, in-situ hybridisation (RNAscope) and other molecular tissue probing techniques using Bond III and Bond RX. The post holder will also perform slide scanning using Perkin Elmer Vectra Polaris to acquire data and support data management activities. The role includes taking lead communication on client projects.
Key tasks include:
- Independently perform complex fluorescent and colourimetric staining assays.
- Contribute to the development of improved methods and techniques.
- Design and perform RNAscope cell and tissue assays using robotic staining platforms. Independently determine optimal assay conditions for diverse sample fixation and processing conditions. Troubleshoot assays.
- Work in collaboration with Aquila team to implement work practices, SOPs and documentation for accreditation. Ensure systems involved in maintaining MHRA GCLP requirements are adhered to where appropriate.
- Participate in business development activities; communicating information on the histology services to interested parties.
- Discuss assays with colleagues, clients and contractors providing feedback and results within the agreed timelines.
- Maintain a high level of documentation and quality of work to GCP regulations such that all experimental work is evidenced.
- Work to established SOPs and where not available establish working SOPs.
- Assist in the preparation of client proposals, liaising directly with clients both face-to-face and by email.
- Maintain and develop initiatives to improve operational effectiveness of the histology team.
- Potentially line manage graduate and technical staff.
Essential Skills/Experience:
- Life science degree (Biomedical Sciences/Biological Sciences), post-graduate degree an advantage
- Extensive work experience in a histology/pathology setting
- Exceptional attention to detail, accurate record keeping skills
- Strong written and oral communication
- Strong team work ethic, highly motivated and entrepreneurial personality
Desirable Skills/Experience:
- Experience in multiplex IHC/staining using Bond platforms
- Experience in brightfield/fluorescent scanning using Zeiss Axioscan and/or Perkin Elmer Vectra Polaris
- Project management experience
- Background knowledge of RNAscope, automated processes an advantage
- Background knowledge of immunology
- Experience in quantitative image analysis
Salary will depend on level of experience.