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- Tasks: Join our team as an LC-MS Scientist and support drug discovery through sample analysis.
- Company: Avantor, a leader in life-changing science with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonus, private healthcare, and 25 days holiday plus your birthday off.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience with advanced LC-MS technologies and make a real impact in drug discovery.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline 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 - Cambridge employer: Avantor
Contact Detail:
Avantor Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land LC - 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 practising common questions and showcasing your LC-MS expertise. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience and how it relates to the role. Confidence is key, so rehearse until you feel comfortable!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; follow up! After submitting your application through our website, send a friendly email to express your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay organised and keep track of your applications. Use a spreadsheet to note down where you've applied, the status, and any follow-up actions. This will help you stay on top of your job search and ensure you don’t miss any opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace LC - 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.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, emphasise your problem-solving skills and your ability to work collaboratively. Mention any hands-on experience you have with LC-MS instruments and how you've contributed to method development.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your cover letter, keep it clear and concise. Make sure to explain why you're a great fit for the role and how your background in bioanalysis can contribute to our team at StudySmarter.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avantor
✨Know Your LC-MS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your LC-MS knowledge before the interview. Understand the principles, applications, and common troubleshooting techniques. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like troubleshooting an LC-MS instrument or managing sample documentation. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar challenges, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with other scientists, be ready to discuss how you've collaborated in previous roles. Highlight any cross-disciplinary projects you've been part of and how you contributed to team success. This will illustrate your ability to work well in a collaborative environment.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
During the interview, practice clear and concise communication. Be prepared to present and discuss your experimental data, as well as defend your findings. Good communication skills are essential in this role, so showing that you can articulate your thoughts effectively will leave a positive impression.