"Post-Doctoral Biochemist/Cell Biologist"

Summary

A position is available within Kleis Therapeutics, a spinout company of Aston University, starting in January 2026 for one-year fixed term.

We are seeking a highly motivated biochemist/cell Biologist to join our team investigating novel treatments for chronic lung disease. The successful candidate will play a key role in evaluating new small molecule drug candidates using biochemical, cellular, and tissue-based assays. Salary will be in the range of £36,000-£44,000 depending on experience.

Interviews date: w/c 12th January 2026.

Application should include a 2-page CV and a 1-page statement saying how you meet the main duties and responsibilities of the job.

Please send your application via the 'Apply' button above (E: z.wang10@aston.ac.uk) before the closing date.

Job Purpose

To contribute to the development of a small molecule drug for the treatment of chronic lung disease. The successful candidate will be an employee of Kleis Therapeutics and based primarily on the Aston University campus.

Main Duties/Responsibilities

As a biochemist/Cell Biology member of the team your duties will be involved in the biochemical and biological testing of the new potential drugs in both in vitro and cell and tissue models with analysis of tissue samples using histological methods. General laboratory duties include running and maintaining the laboratories, performing H&S and COSHH assessment, completing SOPs and purchase ordering. The appointed person will also be expected to prepare scientific reports on the progress of the work and in the preparation of research articles related to the project.

About Kleis Therapeutics

Kleis Therapeutics is an early stage spin out company that has received funding from Innovate UK to develop a lead small molecule inhibitor for the treatment of chronic lung disease such as Idiopathic Fibrosis. There is presently no cure for this disease and existing drugs available only slow down the process without prolonging life and in addition can cause side effects such as sickness and diarrhea and in some cases liver toxicity.

What we offer

• Access to world-class research facilities at Aston University,
• Excellent training and development opportunities in an innovative early-stage therapeutic startup
• Experience across the different stages of Drug Development.

Essential Requirements

• A PhD in a biochemical /cell biology area.
• Strong background knowledge in mammalian cell culture including cell toxicity studies calculation of the cell EC50’s of eg small molecule inhibitors biochemical analysis including enzyme assays and enzyme kinetics (eg Kinact/Ki studies)
• Experience in statistical analysis
• Experience in recording research findings and project reporting
• Quantitative data analysis skills
• Good spoken and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and organisational skills, with the ability to work as part of a team
• Project management skills
• Good organisational and time-keeping skills.
• Good computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point)