Scientist position

About Cora Biosciences

We are a newly launched, venture-backed biotech spinout from a leading academic institution, dedicated to transforming the treatment of serious diseases using next-generation antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapeutics. With a strong scientific foundation and a leadership team of experienced drug developers, we are building a pipeline of RNA-targeted therapies that address high unmet medical need.

We are seeking a Scientist – Discovery Biology to join our founding research team in London. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the scientific direction of an early-stage company while making meaningful contributions to the development of novel ASO therapeutics.

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Scientist to join our team. The successful candidate will support the biological evaluation of antisense oligonucleotides from early discovery through lead identification for cardiac therapeutic applications. This role is responsible for developing and executing ASO screening cascades, building disease-relevant in vitro and in vivo models, and driving the biological characterization of candidate molecules.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement high-throughput in vitro screening assays for ASO activity, selectivity, uptake, and toxicity.
• Build and validate disease-relevant cellular and molecular models (e.g., primary cells, iPSC-derived models, organoids, etc.) for ASO screening and mechanistic studies.
• Design and execute in vivo pharmacology studies to assess ASO distribution, target engagement, efficacy, and safety.
• Organise, analyse and interpret internal research data to identify key insights that will inform future research activities and business strategy and clearly communicating these to relevant internal stakeholders.
• Maintaining high standards of accuracy, confidentiality, and security when handling sensitive data related to proprietary research findings.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, or a related field, with 3+ years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience.
• Proven expertise in nucleic acid therapeutics, especially ASOs.
• Strong track record in molecular and cellular biology assay development, including vector design, psiCHECK, QuantiGene assays, qPCR, RT-PCR, ddPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, immunocytochemistry, microscopy, splint ligation, hELISA, RNAscope and transcriptome analysis.
• Hands-on experience with cell-based disease models, especially in cardiac diseases.
• Experience designing and executing in vivo studies in rodents for ASO or RNA therapeutic evaluation.
• Familiarity with ASO delivery, uptake, and metabolism in various tissues.
• Excellent experimental design, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to clearly present scientific data and strategies.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in early-stage drug discovery or biotech startups.
• Knowledge of RNA biology, splicing regulation, or RNA-protein interactions.

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: laura@corabio.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.

Job Type: Full-time