Job Overview
Do you have expertise in small molecules drug discovery?
Have you got the desire to improve health and lives?
Charles River Laboratories are excited to be recruiting for a Senior Scientist I to join our High Peak, UK site. This is an onsite role; you’ll be expected to be onsite 5 days/week.
This is an exciting hands‑on role, where you’ll be at the forefront of developing new screening offerings across different modalities, with a particular focus on small molecules. You’ll be an experienced Scientist in this space already, with expertise in radiochemicals and of working collaboratively on projects across a variety of cell‑based screening technologies.
Job Description
What you’ll be doing:
- Use the Retrogenix® Cell Microarray Technology to design, execute and interpret studies across a range of sample types and modalities, with particular focus on radiolabelled small molecules.
- Contribute to the development of new scientific capabilities by reading and applying current literature, methodologies, and emerging technologies; lead the development of new screening offerings across modalities with particular focus on small molecules.
- Act as a lead within the laboratory, supervising radiochemical use, setting standards for best practices and providing troubleshooting support across scientific and technological activities.
- Contribute to and independently deliver continuous improvement initiatives by proactively identifying and implementing innovative ideas to enhance laboratory efficiency, scientific capabilities and client offerings.
- Perform routine laboratory activities, ensuring accurate, up‑to‑date record keeping and maintenance of laboratory notebooks and data systems.
- Mentor, coach, and train junior scientists, supporting their technical development and ensuring skill progression. Review colleagues’ work to ensure quality, accuracy, and consistency with scientific standards.
- Collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams to support successful project delivery.
- Manage time efficiently, prioritising workload across multiple concurrent projects to meet deadlines.
- Communicate scientific findings clearly, both internally and externally where required, including presentation of results and recommendations.
- Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of relevant scientific literature and best laboratory practices.
- Adhere to all Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) standards, ensuring safe working practices, promptly reporting any incidents or concerns and implementing new procedures/Risk Assessments where required.
- Demonstrate awareness of departmental objectives and organisational strategy; contribute to scientific community initiatives.
- Commit to developing both laboratory and non‑laboratory skills; including scientific writing, presentation skills and Continuous Improvement.
Skills and Experience
- Educated to MSc level at a minimum (PhD preferred) within relevant discipline – Biology or similar.
- Proven hands‑on experience in an industry‑led scientific role, preferably within small molecule drug discovery projects.
- Track record of working with radiochemicals in screening technologies is essential.
- Experience of working at another CRO/Biotech/Pharma company preferred.
- Any additional project leadership experience is highly advantageous.
- Strong problem solving and communication skills, able to work in multiple project teams collaboratively.
- Demonstrable skills in independent design and execution of high‑quality experiments.
What We Offer You
- A very comprehensive benefits package from day one, including a large pension contribution, private medical for you (and can add family members), private dental care, critical illness cover, bonus and more.
- Global opportunities and strong career progression.
- The chance to work on several varied projects and liaise globally and nationally with other business areas.
- To be able make a difference to health and wellbeing of people.
- To continue your own career growth.
- Flexible working (in line with business need).
- Parental leave.
- Group Life Assurance and Group Income Protection.
- Remote GP access 24/7.
- Well‑being support and initiatives.
Senior Scientist I in High Peak employer: Charles River
At Charles River, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to make a meaningful impact in drug discovery. Located in Portishead, our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including a generous bonus scheme and non-contributory pension, alongside ample opportunities for professional development and growth. Join us to lead scientific excellence while mentoring the next generation of scientists in a supportive environment dedicated to health and well-being.
