QC Scientist (Manufacture)

Job Description

Qkine, based in Cambridge, UK, manufactures high-purity, animal-free growth factors and cytokines. By combining proprietary production and protein engineering techniques, we tackle fundamental biological and scale-up challenges across the stem cell, organoid, regenerative medicine, and cultured meat sectors. Our approach has attracted a loyal customer base spanning leading biotechnology companies and world-class academic institutions.

We are seeking a QC Scientist to join our Manufacturing team. You will hold a BSc or equivalent experience in biological sciences or a related field and have hands-on laboratory experience. The successful candidate will be highly organised, demonstrate excellent attention to detail and be confident working independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment. We are looking for a proactive individual with a strong focus on quality and a practical approach to troubleshooting. This is a hands-on role and requires full-time on-site presence throughout the working week.

Key responsibilities include managing and prioritising the quality testing of manufactured protein batches to ensure products meet Qkine’s quality standards and are released within agreed timelines. You will perform and analyse cell-based proliferation assays to assess bioactivity and lot-to-lot consistency, alongside protein quality and quantity testing using techniques including SDS-PAGE, densitometry, and UV recovery. The role will also involve troubleshooting QC issues, maintaining accurate records within our ELN and quality systems. You will work closely with the Manufacturing and Cell Culture teams and contribute to process improvement activities across the department.

Required Experience

• Degree in Biological Sciences or a related discipline, or equivalent laboratory experience.
• Experience in aseptic mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Experience with cell-based assays is essential.
• Experience following laboratory SOPs and maintaining accurate records.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Good communication skills and a team-oriented approach.
• Experience with protein analysis techniques such as SDS-PAGE, protein quantification and LC-MS would be advantageous.
• Experience with endotoxin and mycoplasma testing would be advantageous.
• Experience using an ELN for accurate data recording and reporting.
• Experience working within a QMS such as ISO 9001:2015 would be advantageous, with ISO 13485 knowledge being highly desirable.

The post-holder will also be required to participate in the Cell Culture team’s weekend rota.

How to apply:

Please send a two-page CV and a one-page covering letter explaining why you are a great fit for the role and would like to join our team. Please send as a single PDF file to [email protected].

We will be interviewing on a rolling basis for this key team member. Informal enquiries welcome via [email protected]. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Qkine is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and creating an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment.