Senior Scientist (ATDBio)

Overview

Biotage – Southampton, United Kingdom. Senior Scientist – SME Mass Spectrometry in the Oligonucleotide Production Department, Southampton. Lead analytical strategy and contribute to the development and production of high-quality modified oligonucleotides.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee analytical workflows involving LC-MS, HPLC, PAGE, UPLC-MS and related chromatography to support oligonucleotide synthesis and purification.
• Act as the subject matter expert (SME) in Mass Spectrometry, driving method development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to optimize small molecule preparation and oligonucleotide synthesis processes.
• Maintain and calibrate analytical instrumentation, ensuring high performance and compliance with quality standards.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Associate Scientists and Lab Technicians, supporting training and development.
• Ensure rigorous documentation and data integrity in line with ISO and internal quality systems.
• Champion Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards and promote a culture of safety and compliance.
• Manage inventory and procurement of analytical reagents and consumables.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and methodologies in nucleic acid chemistry and analytical science.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in a high-throughput chemistry or oligonucleotide production environment.
• Extensive hands-on experience with Mass Spectrometry, ideally including Waters LC-MS systems (Experience of Waters Connect is highly desirable).
• Strong background in nucleic acid chemistry and familiarity with purification techniques. Oligonucleotide experience is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, mentor junior staff, and influence scientific strategy.
• Experience working within ISO or GMP-regulated environments.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Self-starter with ability to work under pressure in a fast-changing environment, detail-oriented with strong communication skills.

What we can offer

• 25 days annual leave plus 8 paid bank holidays
• Contributory pension scheme (6% employer contribution)
• Flexible working hours
• Life Assurance (x4 salary)
• Long service awards
• Reward and recognition scheme
• Employer Assistance Programme with 24/7 remote GP service
• Annual flu jabs
• Cycle to work scheme
• Corporate discount on gym membership
• Savings and discounts
• Reimbursement of professional membership fees
• Referral incentives
• Social events
• Volunteering days