At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and execute complex experiments in synthetic organic chemistry to solve real-world problems.
- Company: Join CatSci, a leading innovator in drug development with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, wellness programmes, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with strong support for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on life-changing medicines while working with cutting-edge science.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant scientific field and significant industry experience required.
The predicted salary is between 31370 - 50000 £ per year.
Join a team that’s transforming drug development. At CatSci, we partner with our clients to solve complex scientific problems and accelerate the delivery of life‑changing medicines. We’re now looking for a Scientist/Senior Scientist (Synthetic Organic Chemistry) to join our scientific team and play a key role in delivering high‑quality, client‑focused science. If you’re a hands‑on chemist who enjoys variety, collaboration, and seeing your work make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you. We are especially keen to hear from people with experience in catalysis and/or high-throughput screening and/or process development.
Founded in 2010 by former AstraZeneca scientists, we began as a catalyst screening specialist before evolving into a fully integrated innovation partner for complex synthetic medicines. What started in a single lab in Cardiff has expanded across 14 state-of-the-art laboratories across the UK and Europe. Over the past decade, we’ve expanded into process chemistry, analytical development, oligonucleotides, peptides, and bioscience, and today, CatSci stands as a trusted drug development partner to more than 100 biotechs and global pharma companies.
We pride ourselves on creating an environment where all our employees can flourish. As part of our team, you’ll thrive on a culture of continuous improvement and always be encouraged to be the best version of yourself. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes our company stronger.
As a Scientist/Senior Scientist at CatSci, you’ll work collaboratively on a range of client programmes, applying your technical expertise to solve challenging problems across drug discovery and development. You’ll deliver high‑quality experimental work, contribute to project success, and support the development of colleagues within a supportive, inclusive environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced chemist ready to take the next step in responsibility while remaining close to the science.
What you’ll be doing:
- Designing, executing, and interpreting complex experimental studies
- Applying scientific judgement to troubleshoot and solve technical challenges
- Delivering project milestones to agreed timelines and quality standards
- Presenting data clearly to project teams and clients, both written and verbal
- Supporting and mentoring Scientists and Associate Scientists
- Contributing to a collaborative, high‑performing team culture
- Maintaining excellent standards of documentation, data integrity, and laboratory safety
About you:
You’ll bring strong scientific expertise, curiosity, and a pragmatic, solutions‑focused mindset. You’ll enjoy working across projects and collaborating with others to deliver real value for clients.
You’ll have:
- A degree (BSc, MSc or PhD) in a relevant scientific discipline
- Significant relevant industry experience in drug discovery, development, or a related field
- Strong experimental design and data interpretation skills
- The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to teams
- Clear and confident written and verbal communication skills
Why join CatSci?
- Work on varied, impactful client projects at the cutting edge of drug development
- A supportive, inclusive culture where people can thrive
- Genuine investment in your learning, development, and career progression
- A strong wellbeing offer and enhanced family‑friendly benefits
CatSci is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, Living Wage Employer, and an inclusive workplace where everyone is encouraged to be their authentic self.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary: £31,370- £50,000 per annum (depending on experience)
- 25 days annual leave + 8 days bank holiday
- 2 volunteer/charity days per year
- Long service awards
- Annual bonus
- Company pension
- Wellbeing Program including EAP and financial support options
- Private medical insurance
- Death in service cover
- Learning and Development opportunities and more great benefits!
*As an equal opportunities employer, we will provide reasonable support to disabled applicants throughout the recruitment process. If you require any adjustments in order to attend/perform in the interview, please do not hesitate to let us know.
Scientist/Senior Scientist - Synthetic Organic Chemistry (Contract) in Cardiff employer: CatSci
As an Assistant Financial Accountant, you will thrive in a supportive and dynamic work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our company offers comprehensive training opportunities, a collaborative team environment, and the chance to contribute to meaningful financial processes within a rapidly expanding organisation. Located in a vibrant area, we provide a unique blend of professional challenges and personal fulfilment, making us an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding career path.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist/Senior Scientist - Synthetic Organic Chemistry (Contract) in Cardiff
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at CatSci, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like CatSci. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist/Senior Scientist - Synthetic Organic Chemistry (Contract) in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at CatSci. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at CatSci. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at CatSci
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at CatSci. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at CatSci to drive research projects forward.
