Biology Scientist (maternity cover - fixed term 12 months)
- Belfast, UK
- Full time, Temporary
Who We Are
'Almac Discovery is a research driven drug discovery company based in the heart of the medical and life sciences campus at Queen’s University Belfast. The Company is unique in the field of small biotech’s in having access to both small molecule and protein/peptide-based approaches and is focussed on two key platform areas (Deubiquitinases and protein-drug conjugates) which exploit these modalities. The team is located in state-of-the-art facilities on the Queen’s University Belfast life sciences
'Almac Discovery is a research driven drug discovery company based in the heart of the medical and life sciences campus at Queen’s University Belfast. The Company is unique in the field of small biotech’s in having access to both small molecule and protein/peptide-based approaches and is focussed on two key platform areas (Deubiquitinases and protein-drug conjugates) which exploit these modalities. The team is located in state-of-the-art facilities on the Queen’s University Belfast life sciences Show more
Skills and attributes
- Cell Biology
- Drug Discovery
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- PhD
- Biological Laboratory
- Cancer biology
Description
Biology Scientist
(maternity cover - fixed term 12 months)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week. Monday – Friday, flexible working hirs
Ref No: HRJOB11789
Business Unit: Almac Discovery
Location: Belfast
Open To: Internal & External Candidates
The Role
An exciting position is now available at our Belfast site to help further our drug discovery efforts.
In this role, you will be responsible for the delivery of high-quality biochemical and cell-based assay data to support small molecule and biologic drug discovery programmes. You will lead the development, optimisation, validation and execution of innovative in vitro assays, while independently performing experiments, analysing results and communicating scientific conclusions.
Working with a high degree of autonomy, you will identify and resolve technical challenges, maintain accurate experimental records within discovery informatics systems, and contribute critical scientific insights to advance medicinal chemistry and drug discovery projects.
- PhD in biology, biochemistry or another relevant life science discipline*
- Strong background in molecular and cell biology and/or cancer biology.
- Practical experience and comprehensive knowledge of cell biology and other basic molecular techniques e.g. DNA/RNA/ protein from cells and/or tissues. PCR, western blotting, cloning or ELISA.
- Practical experience in mammalian cell culture.
*(significant, relevant work experience & a BSc in a relevant discipline may be considered in lieu of PhD).
- Experience in cell-based models of disease and ability to characterise complex cellular phenotypes
- Previous experience in pharmaceutical R&D or related research environment considered advantageous
- Prior experience in at least one of the following complex cellular assays e.g. (3D, co-culturing), flow cytometry, CRISPR
- Prior experience in assay development, for medium- high throughput screening campaigns informing hit identification, triage and SAR data interpretation.
- Prior experience in the use of laboratory automation and liquid handling equipment
Reward
A competitive salary and excellent benefits package are available, including generous holiday allowance, healthcare reimbursement scheme, and the opportunity to work in a role that directly supports patient safety and the advancement of clinical research.
Closing Date
We will no longer be accepting applications after Sunday 22nd November 2026 at 17:00
Please note: This position is being readvertised, if you have applied for the role within the last six months, unfortunately, we cannot consider your application at this time. We appreciate your continued interest and apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
- Paid Time-Off for Vacation and Sick Days
- Life insurance
- Flexible Schedules
- Professional Development + Growth
- Free onsite tea/coffee
- EAP (Employee Assistance Programme)
- Staff Discounts
- Opportunities for Advancement
- Attractive Compensation Package
- Work/Life Balance
- Childcare Benefits
- Wellness Programs
- Lunch & Learns
- Employee Recognition
- Employee Referral Bonus
- Death in Service
- Pension Scheme
- Learning and Development opportunities
- Moving house leave
- Paid medical appointments
- Bereavement, Parental and Carers Leave
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- E-Learning and Development opportunities
Almac Discovery is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Biology Scientist (maternity cover - fixed term 12 months) employer: Almac Group
Almac Group is an exceptional employer located in Craigavon, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Pharma and Healthcare sectors. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, a commitment to employee well-being, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on healthcare solutions. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to continuous improvement and excellence in digital solutions.
