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- Tasks: Join our team as an LC-MS Scientist and analyse samples for drug discovery.
- Company: Avantor, a leader in life-changing science and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, private healthcare, and 25 days holiday plus your birthday off.
- Other info: Dynamic setting with opportunities for career growth and knowledge sharing.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience with advanced LC-MS technologies in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a scientific field and 2 years of LC-MS experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Opportunity: LC-MS Scientist - Discovery Bioanalysis
Location: Cambridge - Discovery Center
Contract: Temporary (12 months)
About the Role
We are seeking an LC-MS Scientist to join our customer's Discovery Bioanalysis function, embedded within the Spatial and Quantitative Omics Group. This role plays a key part in supporting sample analysis for the LC-MS portfolio, contributing to high-quality, timely bioanalytical data within a drug discovery environment.
You will be responsible for sample preparation, LC-MS instrument operation, and data processing, with a strong grounding in the principles and practical application of mass spectrometry. The role offers exposure to both routine analysis and method development, as well as opportunities to collaborate closely with scientists across multiple disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform routine LC-MS sample analyses efficiently, ensuring high scientific quality and compliance
- Provide direct project support through laboratory-based sample analysis
- Contribute to LC-MS method development and experimental design
- Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and support basic repairs on LC and LC-MS systems, including QQQ and HRMS instruments, with guidance from senior staff
- Manage and organise samples, ensuring appropriate documentation and traceability
- Process, assess, and report data clearly, understanding its relevance within the overall drug discovery context
- Present and discuss experimental data with relevant stakeholders and defend findings when required
- Highlight data quality concerns or technical issues promptly
- Collaborate with colleagues across scientific disciplines to share progress and expertise
- Support laboratory operations through strong housekeeping and sample management practices
- Ensure all work complies with Safety, Health & Environment (SHE), quality and compliance standards, including GLS, Signals ELN, and IBA project tracking tools
- Proactively develop technical knowledge by reviewing scientific literature and engaging with peer scientists
Education, Skills & Experience
Essential
- Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline and/or proven industry experience
- Minimum 2 years' hands-on experience with LC-MS techniques
- Solid understanding of LC-MS theory, principles, and applications
- Strong problem-solving skills with the confidence to act quickly and effectively
- Experience with analytical technologies, either broadly or with deep expertise in LC-MS
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Strong customer-service mindset and ability to work collaboratively
- Highly organised, self-motivated, dependable, and detail-focused
- Flexibility with working hours when required to meet customer and project needs
Desirable
- Pharmaceutical or drug discovery industry experience
- Understanding of multiple R&D disciplines
- Experience with protein or peptide mass spectrometry
- Practical experience in LC-MS instrument troubleshooting
- Knowledge and hands-on experience with HRMS systems
Why Join Us?
This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge Discovery Bioanalysis team working within a highly collaborative and scientific environment. You'll gain hands-on experience with advanced LC-MS technologies while contributing directly to impactful drug discovery programmes.
We offer a competitive and attractive benefits package, including:
- Market-conform salary, aligned with experience and skills
- Annual bonus scheme, recognising individual and team contributions
- Private healthcare, providing peace of mind and access to quality medical support
- 25 days of annual holiday, plus 1 additional paid day off to celebrate your birthday
You'll work alongside experienced scientists who are committed to knowledge sharing, continuous improvement, and maintaining high scientific standards. This role is ideal for someone looking to further develop their LC-MS expertise within a dynamic and supportive setting.
LC in Cambridge employer: Avantor
Contact Detail:
Avantor Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land LC in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their LC-MS technologies and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs. Show them you're not just another candidate, but someone genuinely interested in contributing to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it's presenting data or discussing your experience, being articulate and confident can set you apart. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery and get feedback.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and are familiar with our processes. Let's get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace LC in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the LC-MS Scientist role. Highlight your relevant experience with LC-MS techniques and any specific projects you've worked on that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about drug discovery and how your skills can contribute to our Discovery Bioanalysis team. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you’ve tackled challenges in the lab. We love seeing candidates who can think on their feet and come up with effective solutions!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avantor
✨Know Your LC-MS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your LC-MS theory and practical applications. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with different LC-MS techniques, as well as any troubleshooting you've done. This will show that you're not just familiar with the equipment but can also handle challenges effectively.
✨Prepare for Data Discussions
Since you'll be processing and reporting data, practice explaining your findings clearly and concisely. Think about how your data fits into the broader context of drug discovery and be prepared to defend your conclusions. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and understanding of the field.
✨Show Off Your Collaboration Skills
This role involves working closely with other scientists, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your communication skills and your ability to work within a team, as this is crucial for contributing to method development and experimental design.
✨Stay Organised and Detail-Focused
Being highly organised is key in a lab environment. Bring examples of how you've managed samples and documentation in previous roles. Discuss your approach to maintaining compliance with safety and quality standards, as this will reassure them of your reliability and professionalism.