Senior Scientist - Characterisation

Introduction

Our client are a large Biopharmaceutical company located in Slough looking for a Senior Scientist to join their characterisation team.

Important

Knowledge or experience of recombinant protein production or analysis

The Job

Job Summary:
Working within the Characterisation team in Analytical Development, Biologics, you will be responsible for the development and implementation of mass spectrometry assays for novel protein and biochemical analysis to support the development of novel protein therapeutics.

Together with other members of the Characterisation team, you will elucidate the structure/function of heterogenous proteins and characterise protein production processes.

The team focus is divided between comprehensive detailed characterisation of proteins; understanding molecular vulnerabilities; and on non-routine investigations. This necessitates employing techniques such as mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF and ESI-MS/MS etc), HPLC (reversed phase, ion exchange, size exclusion), electrophoresis (gel and capillary based), Western blotting, spectroscopy (CD, FTIR) and BIAcore analysis.

The position is responsible for maintaining a mass spectrometry facility; prioritising work packages; and mentoring staff. There are opportunities to collaborate with teams and projects within UCB across sites in the UK, Belgium, Switzerland and the US. Academic collaborations are also encouraged.

Job Skills and Experience
This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced and enthusiastic post-graduate to develop skills and experience in the biopharmaceutical sector. You must have a PhD or equivalent in biochemistry, biotechnology or other relevant discipline, and a sound understanding of biochemistry is essential. Ideally you will also have experience of science in an industrial setting, and experience of mass spectrometry and protein chromatography is essential while oligosaccharide understanding is particularly desirable.

In addition to these technical skills, you must have a genuine enthusiasm for scientific research, good communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team.

Essential
PhD. or equivalent in a relevant subject (ideally biochemistry or biotechnology)
Sound understanding of biochemistry and/or protein science
Experienced in Mass Spectrometry
Ability to tackle complex scientific problems and keep accurate records
Ability to communicate well and work effectively in a team
Enthusiasm, and ability to learn

Desirable
Knowledge or experience of recombinant protein production or analysis
Oligosaccharide experience

To apply for this position, candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK.