Senior Scientist – In Vitro Biology

Are you a scientist passionate about working with primary human immune cells?

Does the field of drug discovery excite and motivate you?

If so, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re looking for talented and curious individuals to join our global Contract Research Organisation dedicated to improving health and transforming lives.

You’ll have the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of science while developing your career in a collaborative and supportive environment.

With access to world-class facilities, meaningful projects, and clear progression pathways, this is your chance to make a real impact in drug discovery and human health.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Senior Scientist I or II within our In-Vitro Biology team based in Portishead, you’ll be working independently under strategic guidance with understanding and application of scientific and technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques in a predominantly lab-based environment. 

Main Tasks: 

• Independently run a wide range of immunological assays using techniques such as flow cytometry, IncuCyte, MACS sorting, culture and differentiation of primary cells and cell lines, ELISA, Luminex, TR-FRET, and ex-vivo tissue processing.  
• Implement available assays and develop new immunological assays to support the in vitro biology capabilities in the areas of immuno-oncology, autoimmune disease and inflammation (inc. neuroinflammation), infection or microbiome programs.  
• Interrogate own and others data to generate reports where conclusions/future directions are scientifically sound and provide technical and scientific leadership to drive project progression.  
• Guide, coach and mentor junior scientific staff, helping to train on specific techniques and provide technical knowledge, where needed.  
• Project lead or deputy-Project lead or execute IVB studies with minimal supervision from the Project lead. 
• Leverage BD/CS and operational team to introduce novel work for the site, including scoping calls with client and revision of scientific project proposals. 

As well as:

• Work effectively and collaboratively as part of assigned project teams. Able to communicate effectively across peers, embodying the Charles River Values daily, and acting as a role model in their position and to Technicians, Associate Scientists, Scientists I and II. 
• Demonstrate accurate time keeping and efficient scheduling of own work, often across several projects.  
• Accurately present scientific information and discuss future directions internally and externally. 
• Keep an awareness of relevant scientific literature and best laboratory practices. 
• Appropriate use of quality and compliance processes, and adherence to all study procedures e.g. time tracking, project templates etc. Contribute and participate in Continuous Improvement projects, offering possible suggestion to any problems.  
• Adhere to all EHS standards when onsite, ensuring best practice and always operates in a safe manner. Able to recognise and report any EHS incidents or issues to management.  
• Understanding of drug discovery process and awareness of strategic goals for their respective department. Active contribution to the site’s scientific community forums.  

Skills and Qualifications

• As a minimum, an MSc with a biological focus.
• Demonstrable lab-based experience in disciplines of immuno-oncology, autoimmune disease and inflammation (inc. neuroinflammation).
• Awareness of Health and Safety standards within the labs and ability to work safely within this environment 
• Excellent communication skills, able to relay scientific information accurately.  
• Strong passion for working within drug discovery, able to keep abreast of industry updates and share amongst peer groups.  
• Strong problem solving and communication skills, with ability to work collaboratively within a team 
• Proficient in IT – Microsoft, Outlook, and Teams.  
• Clear understanding and grasp of the drug discovery process. 
• Being able to work to tight timelines and the ability to modify workflow.

It would be advantageous, but not essential if you have:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline.
• Skills and understanding of Flow Cytometry, cancer immunology and sample handling.
• Complex immunology experience.
• Demonstrable practical skills in executing biological assays in a pharma/biotech/CRO environment. 
• Previous industry experience in the labs, ideally from pharma/CRO/biotech.

What We Offer You

• A very comprehensive benefits package from day one, including a generous pension contribution, private medical for you (and can add family members), private dental care, critical illness cover, bonus and more!
• Access to great discounts via our CREDS discount scheme.
• Global opportunities and strong career progression.
• The chance to work on several varied projects and liaise globally and nationally with other business areas.
• To be able make a difference to health and wellbeing of people.
• To continue your own career growth.
• Flexible and hybrid working.
• Parental leave.
• Group Life Assurance and Group Income Protection.
• Remote GP access 24/7.
• Well being support and initiatives.
• Cycle to work scheme.