Junior Cell Biologists, Neuroscience and/or Oncology
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Position Overview & Specifications
Astex Pharmaceuticals is a world leader in innovative drug discovery and development. The company has successfully applied its proprietary Fragment-Based Drug Discovery platform to generate multiple new drug candidates that are progressing in clinical development. Successful collaborations have led to two launched oncology drugs (Kisqali® partnered with Novartis and Balversa® partnered with Janssen). Astex continues to grow and focuses on Neurological Disorders and Oncology.
The Opportunity
Our continued investment in new technologies such as CryoEM and bioinformatics has provided new opportunities for drug discovery in both oncology and neurodegenerative disease. We are now looking to broaden our capabilities in the Bioscience area to exploit this investment and drive our drug discovery portfolio forward. We have several roles available across therapeutic areas, representing exciting opportunities to contribute experience and expertise to the drug discovery process at Astex from target identification and validation through compound evaluation with in vitro and in vivo models to translational support for clinical trials.
We are looking for individuals with experience in cell biology. This is an opportunity to develop your career in a thriving multidisciplinary drug discovery environment with a strong focus on collaboration.
Responsibilities
- Provide laboratory-based support for the evaluation of compounds in a variety of cell-based systems
- Carry out mammalian tissue culture and use a range of cell biology techniques such as proliferation assays, western blotting, ELISA/MSD, imaging assays, FACS and immunohistochemistry.
- Analyse data, accurately record data in lab notebooks and input data to databases
- Deliver accurate and timely data to project teams
Requirements
- BSc in a biology-related subject with proven laboratory-based experience
- Experience in a range of cell and molecular biology techniques.
These roles are offered on a 3 year fixed term contract
Why Astex
We offer excellent training and development opportunities as well as a highly competitive salary and benefits package including hybrid working options to promote a flexible and inclusive work environment.
At Astex we embrace diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse Company representing all backgrounds, harnessing industry-leading scientific innovation and behaviours.
Candidate Selection & Onboarding Process
Application & Resume Screening
Submit your tailored CV/Resume directly to the talent acquisition portal.
Technical & Competency Interviews
Virtual interviews with the hiring manager and multidisciplinary team.
Formal Offer & Benefits Negotiation
Written agreement outlining compensation, equity, retirement vesting, and relocation allowances.
Onboarding & Corporate Integration
Equipment provisioning, team orientation, and commencement of duties.
United Kingdom Right to Work & Skilled Worker Visa Guide
Employment in the United Kingdom requires legal Right to Work verified under the Home Office Points-Based Immigration System:
Sponsoring employers must hold an active Home Office A-rated Sponsor License and assign a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Role must meet the general minimum salary threshold (£38,700) or occupation going rate.
Continuous employment under Skilled Worker status establishes eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years, leading to British Citizenship.
Candidate Preparation Blueprint: Biotech & Pharmaceuticals
Based on transatlantic hiring benchmarks for Junior Cell Biologists, Neuroscience and/or Oncology roles across Astex Pharmaceuticals's corporate sector, successful applicants typically excel across three core dimensions:
Demonstrated portfolio evidence, architecture/system design case studies, or validated professional certifications directly applicable to Biotech & Pharmaceuticals.
STAR method competency responses highlighting cross-functional leadership, conflict resolution, and delivering measurable enterprise ROI under tight timelines.
Total compensation expectation aligned within the benchmarked £36,651 - £51,283 bracket, including retirement vesting and health parity.
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