Senior Scientist I in Macclesfield

Role: Senior Scientist microbiology, Anti-infectives, 1 year fixed term contract

Direct report: To Principal Scientist

Hours: Full time, 40 hours per week, typical working hours: 9am-6pm

Salary: Competitive salary and benefits package plus annual bonus opportunity

Location: Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG

Our company Evotec is a leader in the discovery and development of novel therapeutics of all modalities with operational sites in Europe (UK, Germany, Italy and France) as well as the US. Evotec Alderley Park provides bespoke discovery and development services for new therapies to treat and prevent serious and life-threatening infections arising from bacteria, fungi and viruses.

Role and Responsibilities

As a Senior Scientist, you will lead and execute complex microbiology projects. This role requires scientific expertise, independence, and leadership in experimental design, data interpretation, and project delivery. You will contribute to innovation and ensure compliance with quality and safety standards while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Scientific Expertise: Act as a subject matter expert in virology; maintain awareness of emerging trends and technologies; support development of new models and methodologies.
• Experimental Design & Execution: Within a multi-disciplinary team lead the planning, conduct, and troubleshooting of microbiology studies (with a focus on virology): contribute to workflow optimisation and process improvements.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Interpret complex datasets, apply statistical tools, and prepare high-quality reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Project Leadership: Coordinate project planning, timelines, and resources; ensure timely delivery of milestones; maintain proactive communication with clients and internal teams.
• Compliance & Documentation: Review and approve procedures, risk assessments, and ensure accurate documentation in line with company standards.
• Mentorship & Collaboration: Provide technical guidance to junior scientists; foster a culture of scientific excellence and teamwork.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical expertise in virology, hands-on experience with respiratory viruses including influenza is essential.
• Ability to work across multiple pathogen types (viruses, bacteria, fungi) would be beneficial.
• Knowledge of study design and regulatory compliance; Home Office personal licence holder preferred.
• Familiarity with hollow fibre infection models is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities; capable of managing multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in documentation systems and quality standards.
• Good organisational and time management skills; ability to deliver to tight timelines.
• Attention to detail and high standards of data capture.
• Proficiency in IT, including MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and software such as GraphPad Prism.
• Highly adaptable and able to work effectively in a fast-moving environment.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including willingness to provide out-of-hours cover when required.

Education & Experience

• PhD in Virology or related discipline essential.
• Previous postdoctoral experience in virology research (respiratory viruses - influenza essential).
• Experience of studies preferred and holding a current Home Office personal licence desirable.
• Experience of working with bacterial and fungal pathogens and hollow fibre models preferred.
• Previous experience in the pharmaceutical industry or contract research environment would be advantageous although not essential.

What we can offer you in return

• We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.
• Pension on completion (but not subject to) of your 3-month probationary period. Contributions 5% for employees (salary sacrifice) and 5% for the employer. The employee can opt to increase their contribution, and the employer will match the increase up to a maximum of 7.5%.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays and additional length of service days awarded on the anniversary, up to a maximum of 30 days.
• Private health insurance with BUPA for the employee and their partner/family under the company scheme.
• Well being support 24/7 and counselling services.
• Permanent health insurance provides 75% of the base salary after the qualifying period.
• Private dental cover, on completion (but not subject to) of your 3-month probationary period.
• Eligibility to participate in the Company Bonus Scheme. This is a discretionary benefit.
• Career progression within the company, we have excellent training and support and continuing professional development opportunities.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Refer a friend scheme, team and annual events, recognition awards.

Onsite Facilities

• The company pays for secure onsite parking.
• Restaurant, Café, and Gastro pub.
• Gym and workout studio, running, walking, and cycling routes.
• Good public transport links with the shuttle bus service.