Senior R&D Scientist in Newport, Wales

The senior R&D Scientist is responsible for designing and executing experiments while providing technical guidance across research and development projects focused on recombinant protein production, including enzymes, antibodies, and antigens. The role requires deep expertise in molecular biology, cell fermentation, and protein expression and purification, applied throughout the project lifecycle. In addition to hands‑on experimental work, the scientist collaborates closely with cross‑functional R&D experts across specialized technologies and applications, contributing to integrated project delivery and knowledge sharing.

Your Responsibilities Will Include:

• Experimental Work & Project Delivery: Independently plan, execute, analyse, and document R&D experiments across expression, fermentation, purification, and analytical workflows. Establish and optimise expression protocols for new target proteins, including DNA cloning, construct design, microbial expression setup, and culture optimisation at relevant scales. Develop and optimise purification processes for antigens and proteins using chromatographic and other separation techniques. Demonstrate capability to scale up and/or tech‑transfer purification processes using scalable TFF and chromatography systems. Conduct proof‑of‑concept studies, DOE experiments, and troubleshooting activities to support project progression. Perform in‑process inspection of intermediate and final R&D products.
• Analytical Methods & Laboratory Excellence: Maintain proficiency in all in‑house analytical methods, including SDS‑PAGE, Western blot, protein quantification, stability testing (e.g., Tycho), and capillary electrophoresis where applicable. Establish and familiarise the team with new laboratory methods and technologies. Maintain departmental protocols and ensure accurate, compliant documentation of all experimental data and batch performance. Prepare technical reports, presentations, and summaries for internal and external meetings.
• Design Control & Quality Compliance: Prepare and maintain Design History Files in accordance with ISO13485 Design Control requirements. Ensure all project documentation, records, and workflows comply with BBI’s Design Control and Quality Management System. Support product transfers and maintain clear, traceable documentation throughout development. Complete tasks within BBI’s quality systems (e.g., eQMS, X3, BBI Time) and contribute to continuous improvement of the QMS.
• People Management & Training: Line‑manage R&D Scientists and Technical Assistants, providing guidance in the laboratory on experiments and workflows, support, and performance oversight. Ensure cross‑training within the team and completion of required training modules to demonstrate competence. Support the development of a high‑performing, collaborative laboratory culture.
• Equipment, Facilities & Safety: Perform and supervise maintenance, servicing, qualification, calibration, and monitoring of laboratory equipment. Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and all relevant SOPs. Contribute to general laboratory operations and broader business activities as required.
• Cross‑Functional & Customer Support: Support Sales, Marketing, and other departments with technical enquiries, new technical leads, and proposal development. Participate in customer meetings and co‑host site visits as required. Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders across R&D, QC, Manufacturing, and Commercial teams.

You Should Apply If: Experienced Scientist with a degree based in cell biology, molecular biology, biotechnology or Immunology (related subjects may also be acceptable). Experience in Life science, IVD or medical industry PhD/ Master’s level Knowledge and Experience Purification technologies for proteins, including antigens, antibodies and enzymes. Ability to author SOP’s/ reports Downstream purification and transfer to regular production Line management experience desirable.

Benefits: Competitive Salary with Yearly Salary Reviews, 5% Contributory Pension Scheme, Life Assurance (4x Annual Salary), Private Health Care Scheme – including dental, Global Employee Wellbeing Programme, Reward and Recognition Programme, Commitment to Career Development, Generous Annual Leave Package, Cycle to Work Scheme, Refer A Friend Scheme, Subsidised Canteen, Free Onsite Parking, Electrical Vehicle Lease Scheme, Electrical Charging Points, State of the Art Facilities – Certified Centres of Excellence.

BBI are an equal opportunity employer and believe in fair treatment for all candidates. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, pregnancy, citizenship, marital status, gender expression, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law.