Associate Scientist Molecular Biology

About ScionxBio

ScionxBio is engineering the next generation of RNA medicines, combining synthetic chemistry and artificial intelligence to create xRNA — a platform for long-acting therapeutics. By expanding RNA beyond nature's four-letter alphabet, we engineer molecules that sustain protein expression for weeks to months rather than days, with the durability that chronic disease demands. With an initial focus on cardiometabolic disease, we are working to turn transient treatments into durable therapies. A spinout from Eleven Therapeutics, we are an international team operating across Cambridge (UK), Tel Aviv, and Cambridge (MA), with our Cambridge (UK) site serving as our largest research and development hub, and we are proud to foster a culture of collaboration, diversity, and scientific excellence.

The Opportunity

This is an entry-level position designed for a motivated scientist at the start of their career who is eager to build deep, practical experience in a fast-moving biotech laboratory. We are far more interested in your enthusiasm, your aptitude, and your willingness to learn than in a long track record – one year or so of research experience is plenty, whether gained during or after your degree. Working alongside our molecular biologists, chemists, and AI specialists, you will contribute to the everyday experimental work that drives our platform forward, and you will be given the mentoring, training, and time you need to grow into a confident, independent scientist. This is a genuine development role, and we expect you to ask questions, learn quickly, and steadily take on more responsibility as your skills grow.

What You Will Do

Your responsibilities will develop as your skills and confidence grow. In the early stages you will focus on carrying out experiments accurately and reliably under the guidance of more experienced colleagues; over time you will take on more independent scientific work. Across the role you can expect to:

• Plan and carry out laboratory experiments that contribute to our RNA research, recording your observations and results carefully and accurately.


• Apply and develop core molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, such as RNA and DNA handling, cloning, PCR, in vitro transcription, and cell-based assays, with training and support.


• Help to prepare reagents, maintain stocks, and keep shared laboratory spaces and equipment organised and ready for use.


• Keep clear, well-organised records of your work in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems, building strong habits in data integrity from the start.


• Learn and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and good laboratory practice, including health, safety, and quality requirements, and contribute ideas for improving them.


• Analyse and present your results in team meetings, developing your scientific communication skills in a supportive setting.


• Contribute to the everyday life of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team that spans the UK, US, and Israel.

What We Are Looking For

Because this is an early-career role, we are most interested in your potential and personal qualities. We welcome applications from recent graduates and those with a little laboratory experience behind them. The attributes that matter most to us are:

• A BSc or MSc in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related life-science discipline.


• Around one year of research experience – academic or industry, and including project work during your studies – with some hands-on laboratory experience.


• A genuine curiosity about science and a real interest in RNA and how medicines are discovered and developed.


• Enthusiasm, motivation, and a positive, self-starting attitude towards learning new techniques.


• Careful attention to detail and a methodical, organised approach to laboratory work.


• Good communication skills and a friendly, collaborative manner – you will be part of a close, supportive team.


• Resilience and a willingness to ask for help, learn from feedback, and keep improving.

What We Offer

You will join a welcoming, mission-driven team at the largest site of a growing international biotech, with real responsibility and the chance to contribute to science that could one day change patients' lives. We offer dedicated mentoring and on-the-job training, a supportive environment in which to build the foundations of a career in the life sciences, and the opportunity to learn from and connect with one of the most exciting scientific communities in the world as part of the wider Cambridge life sciences ecosystem.

ScionxBio is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We particularly welcome applications from people who are underrepresented in the sciences.