Discovery Biology Scientist

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Scientist to join our team. The successful candidate will contribute to the screening, characterization, and optimization of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) for cardiac therapeutic applications. This role will be lab based and instrumental in assay development, and identifying lead ASO candidates through in vitro and in vivo studies.

This position is ideal for a PhD-level scientist with a strong background in molecular biology, RNA therapeutics, cardiovascular biology, or related fields, and at least one year of relevant biotech or pharmaceutical industry experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute ASO screening assays to evaluate efficacy, potency, and specificity in relevant cellular and tissue models.
• Conduct high-throughput in vitro screening of ASO candidates to support lead optimization.
• Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques such as vector design, psiCHECK, QuantiGene assays, qPCR, RT-PCR, ddPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, immunocytochemistry, and RNA isolation.• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including chemistry to inform ASO design and sequence optimization.
• Support in vivo studies in cardiac models to assess pharmacodynamics, distribution, and on-target engagement of lead ASOs.
• Analyze, interpret, and present screening and pharmacology data to cross-functional teams.
• Maintain accurate and organized documentation in electronic lab notebooks.
• Assist in managing CRO and academic collaborations and ensuring high-quality data generation.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or related field.
• At least 1 year of biotech/pharmaceutical industry experience, ideally in RNA therapeutics or drug discovery.
• Hands-on experience in working with primary and immortalised cells and iPSCs.
• Hands-on experience in nucleic acid-based screening or functional genomics.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques relevant to ASO evaluation.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to experimental detail.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ASO screening platforms, RNA-seq, or target engagement assays.
• Background in cardiovascular biology or relevant disease models.
• Familiarity with PK/PD principles and translational biomarker development.
• Experience working with CROs.

Why Join Us

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to be part of an early-stage team shaping the future of a high-impact biotech startup.
• Work at the intersection of cutting-edge science and unmet clinical need.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and supportive startup environment.
• Modern lab and office space in the heart of London’s biotech ecosystem.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to: ashling@cora.bio.com Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with the aim to fill the position promptly. Therefore, we encourage qualified individuals to submit their applications without delay.