Job Role: Associate Principal Scientist – Molecular Biology
Site: Edinburgh
Salary: Competitive, DOE
Concept Life Sciences is seeking an experienced Associate Principal Scientist – Molecular Biology to join our Translational Biology team. In this laboratory-based scientific leadership role, you will design, deliver and interpret complex studies that support drug discovery and translational research. Working across advanced cellular models and molecular biology technologies, you will provide scientific expertise, lead key project activities and develop innovative solutions to complex biological questions. You will play a key role in supporting client programmes, driving scientific excellence and helping to develop departmental capability and best practice.
What you will be doing:
As an Associate Principal Scientist, you will lead and contribute to complex client projects within translational biology, applying your expertise in molecular and cellular biology to support drug discovery programmes. You will design studies, analyse and interpret data, troubleshoot scientific challenges and provide technical leadership across multiple projects. Working closely with scientists, project teams and clients, you will help ensure high-quality scientific delivery while identifying opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement. You will also contribute to technology evaluation, capability development and the growth of scientific expertise within the department.
About you:
- You will have a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline and significant postdoctoral, industry or equivalent research experience, with a proven track record operating at Senior Scientist level or above.
- You will have strong technical expertise in molecular biology, genomics, transcriptomics, cell biology or related disciplines, supported by hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and complex cellular systems.
- You will have experience leading scientific projects, including study design, troubleshooting, technology evaluation and delivery of complex research programmes.
- You will be confident building client relationships, presenting scientific data and communicating complex findings to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
- You will have experience working within CRO, biotechnology, pharmaceutical or academic research environments and be comfortable working to GxP standards where applicable.
- You will be motivated by scientific excellence, enjoy solving challenging biological questions and be committed to supporting colleagues, developing capability and delivering high-quality outcomes for clients.
What you will get:
In addition to a competitive salary, we provide generous holiday entitlement, a pension scheme with enhanced employer contributions, a health cash plan covering a range of therapy treatments, a cycle to work scheme, a retail discount scheme, death in service benefit, a discretionary bonus scheme, and free on-site parking.
You’ll also have access to our BHN Extras platform, offering cashback, discounts, and tech/home purchases via salary sacrifice.
Colleague wellbeing is important to us - we offer 24/7 virtual GP access, emotional support services, and a comprehensive wellbeing hub. We’re proud of our inclusive, supportive culture and provide a range of learning and development opportunities to help you grow both personally and professionally.
About Concept Life Sciences:
Concept Life Sciences is a multi-disciplined Contract Research Organisation based in the UK providing market-leading scientific services globally. Over the past 25 years, Concept Life Sciences and its heritage companies have played a pivotal role in guiding numerous clients along their path to clinical success and many of these clients have evolved into enduring scientific collaborators.
From our 4 sites across the UK, we provide world-leading expertise to the pharmaceutical, biotech, agrochemical, and material science industries. We have clients across Europe, Asia, and the US, who value our knowledge-based, science-led, and customer-focused approach.
Associate Principal Scientist – Molecular Biology in Edinburgh employer: Concept Life Sciences
At Concept Life Sciences, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Chapel-en-le-Frith where your expertise in peptide chemistry can truly shine. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, generous benefits, and a culture that fosters collaboration and professional growth, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on drug discovery projects while enjoying a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
