Research Assistant – Nanobody Discovery (12‑month maternity cover)

About the role

The Rosalind Franklin Institute is seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join the Nanobody Discovery team on a 12‑month maternity cover contract. The role focuses on developing nanobodies as molecular probes for structural and cell biology applications.

Key responsibilities

• Screen nanobody expression libraries by phage display to isolate specific binding proteins.
• Express, purify and characterise the antigen‑binding properties of selected nanobodies.
• Manage samples and enter data into the nanobody database.
• Present and interpret results at internal laboratory meetings.
• Ensure laboratory work complies with health and safety policies.
• Support public engagement activities conducted by the Institute.

Required profile

• Highly motivated individual.
• Ability to work safely and responsibly in a laboratory environment.

Required skills

• Phage display screening of nanobody libraries.
• Protein expression and purification techniques.
• Antigen‑binding characterization.
• Sample management and data entry into specialised databases.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures.

What we offer

• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays and a Christmas shutdown.
• Generous pension scheme (employer contribution up to 18%).
• Group life assurance and options to buy/sell annual leave.
• Workplace nursery salary‑sacrifice scheme.
• State‑of‑the‑art laboratory hub with hybrid and flexible working.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Transport benefits including bus pass discounts and good links to Oxford.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme, employee discount platform, occupational health support, health cash plan and subsidised canteen.