At a Glance
- 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: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and knowledge sharing.
- 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 field and 2 years of LC-MS experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The following information provides an overview of the skills, qualities, and qualifications needed for this role.
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 Croxton employer: Avantor
Avantor is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Cambridge that fosters scientific innovation and personal growth. As part of our Discovery Bioanalysis team, you'll enjoy competitive benefits, including a market-conform salary, annual bonuses, and private healthcare, while working alongside experienced scientists dedicated to knowledge sharing and continuous improvement. This role not only provides hands-on experience with advanced LC-MS technologies but also supports your career development in a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land LC in Croxton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your LC-MS expertise. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence. Remember, it’s all about demonstrating your skills and how you can contribute to the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. We suggest mentioning something specific from the interview to remind them of your conversation and keep you top of mind.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who are eager to join our innovative team in the Discovery Bioanalysis function.
We think you need these skills to ace LC in Croxton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience with LC-MS techniques and any specific projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about bioanalysis and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, mention specific instances where you've tackled challenges in the lab or during method development. We value problem solvers who can think on their feet, so share those experiences that demonstrate your quick thinking!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just a few clicks and you’re done!
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 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 during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working closely with other scientists, so highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of past collaborations and how you contributed to successful projects. This will demonstrate that you can thrive in a multidisciplinary environment.
✨Stay Organised and Detail-Focused
Being highly organised is key in this role. Bring up your methods for managing samples and documentation, and how you ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. This will reassure the interviewers that you take your responsibilities seriously.
