Job Description

About Us

We are a team of passionate individuals from 15 countries developing the world’s first biosecurity platform built to combat critical pest threats to human health, food security and the environment. With a deep commitment to trust, integrity and collaboration, Flyttr has become the trusted partner of governments, industries, philanthropies and communities seeking to make bold advancements on the biggest pest threats of our time. We work with urgency because lives and livelihoods depend on it. Successful candidates will find Flyttr to be an exhilarating place to do their best work and will find that every person at Flyttr plays a critical role in a dynamic, exciting, team-oriented culture.

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Molecular Scientist to join a dynamic project team dedicated to researching and developing groundbreaking biological technologies that sustainably and safely control insects that transmit deadly diseases, harm livestock, and damage crops.

In this role, you will serve as a key scientific contributor and US-based technical expert, working closely with the UK Team Lead to ensure alignment of project goals, timelines, and deliverables across sites. You will apply your technical expertise and scientific judgement to design and conduct experiments that characterise aspects of the molecular biology and genetics of our target species.

As part of the Molecular Biology Laboratory Team, you will contribute to the development and analysis of the genetic circuits that power our insects. Your work will involve a range of molecular biology techniques, including but not limited to PCR, data analysis, interpretation of experimental results, and the preparation of scientific reports and presentations. You will independently generate and evaluate data, draw actionable conclusions, and communicate findings clearly to the UK Team Lead and Molecular Group Lead.

You will bring practical experience in experimental design, data generation and interpretation, and lab management together with a hands-on approach to troubleshooting technical challenges. Based in Texas, this role has a strong collaborative component with colleagues in Oxfordshire. As such, you will be comfortable working independently, using a logical and systematic approach to problem-solving and decision-making. You will demonstrate initiative, strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to scientific excellence.

A key aspect of the role is cross-site collaboration, working closely with both local colleagues and UK-based teams to ensure consistency in methods, data quality, and scientific standards. You will partner with the on-site Strain Development and Rearing teams to evaluate, refine, and validate new techniques, genetic transformation approaches, and strain phenotypes.

In addition to maintaining a hands-on laboratory presence, you will contribute to method development and continuous improvement initiatives, while providing technical guidance and support to colleagues when needed. The ability to work autonomously while fostering a collaborative team culture and promoting good laboratory practices is essential.

Excellent communication skills, particularly within a transatlantic working environment, together with enthusiasm for Flyttr's mission, are critical for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate high-quality DNA analysis data and develop robust, specific molecular methods for laboratory and field applications.
• Independently design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments aligned with program objectives and agreed priorities.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and document experimental procedures, results, and activities in accordance with company standards.
• Communicate experimental progress, results, and recommendations effectively to the Team Lead, wider scientific teams, and stakeholders with varying levels of technical expertise.
• Prepare clear, concise technical reports, study summaries, and presentations for internal review and decision-making.
• Conduct literature reviews and apply appropriate statistical methods to analyze, interpret, and present data.
• Support the efficient operation of the laboratory by maintaining organized workspaces, improving processes, and ensuring compliance with procedures, regulations, and health and safety requirements.
• Maintain current safety documentation, including SOPs, risk assessments, COSHH assessments, and training records.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the commercial impact of projects and seek opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and performance.
• Maintain clean, organized, and inspection-ready laboratory and work areas.
• Provide occasional weekend support as part of a rotation within the team;

Qualifications & Experience

• A bachelor’s (Bachelor of Science), master’s degree (Master of Science) in a relevant field (e.g., molecular entomology, molecular biology), or equivalent professional experience (4+ years) is required;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are essential;
• PCR experience is essential;
• Based in the US and must be legally authorized to work in the United States;
• Demonstrate technical abilities appropriate for the role;
• Competency in MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint required;
• Track record of scientific diligence including valuing careful generation and recording of data, demonstrating good laboratory practices, including following SOPs;
• Expertise in insect or arthropod transformation is desirable but not essential;
• Proficiency in R/R Studio and experience in using statistics is highly desirable.

Behavioral Requirements

• Strong self-starting attitude with independent motivation and ability to work autonomously within a wider team.
• Values collaboration and works effectively with global colleagues.
• Commitment to, and passion for, the Flyttr mission and values.
• Responsive to the needs of an international business working across different time zones, adapting working patterns in-line with business requirements.
• Positive, humble, co-operative and professional always.
• Works with urgency and solves things promptly.
• Resilient and persistent in an innovative and constantly changing environment.
• Proactive, resourceful, and comfortable building processes from scratch.

Why Join Us?

At Flyttr, you will be at the forefront of critical global biosecurity efforts, working alongside a dynamic team of leaders, technologists, scientists, engineers, commercial teams, regulatory experts and operational drivers on the front lines. You will have the opportunity to directly shape the policy landscape for pioneering technologies and build the critical relationships necessary to protect global agriculture and public health.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, medical condition, gender reassignment, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.