Senior Scientist – Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences (DLS) Job in Cambridge, UK
Avantor
Location Cambridge, United Kingdom
Country United Kingdom
Application deadline Deadline Not Specified.
Job Overview
Avantor is seeking an experienced Senior Scientist – Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences (DLS) to join a highly regulated, CAP/CLIA-accredited laboratory environment in Cambridge, United Kingdom. This full-time, 12-month contract opportunity is associated with AstraZeneca's Precision Diagnostics Development (PDD) group and focuses on advancing diagnostic technologies, assay development, and precision medicine.
The successful candidate will provide scientific leadership and hands‑on laboratory expertise across diagnostic histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), assay development and validation, and digital pathology workflows. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative diagnostic solutions, translational research, and the development of technologies that support improved patient outcomes.
Candidates with substantial experience in diagnostic histopathology, human tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, laboratory quality management, and regulated diagnostic testing are encouraged to apply.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Scientist – Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences will be responsible for:
Providing scientific leadership and day‑to‑day operational oversight of laboratory activities.
Performing and supervising laboratory procedures in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality requirements.
Leading assay development, optimisation, characterisation, verification, and validation.
Managing design control and assay validation projects.
Designing and conducting studies to evaluate assay sensitivity, specificity, precision, and linearity.
Analysing experimental data using statistical methods and Design of Experiments (DOE).
Developing and optimising sample preparation procedures, including microtomy of different human tissue types.
Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated histology and immunohistochemistry platforms, including Ventana, Leica, and Dako systems.
Supporting digital pathology workflows, whole-slide imaging, image quality control, and troubleshooting.
Ensuring compliance with CAP/CLIA, ISO, Human Tissue Authority (HTA), Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and other applicable regulatory requirements.
Supporting quality management systems, including design controls, supplier controls, change controls, risk management, and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA).
Managing laboratory information and documentation using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
Collaborating with scientists, project managers, and cross‑functional teams to communicate findings and project progress.
Training laboratory staff and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.
Eligibility Criteria and Qualifications
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Biomedical Science, Pathology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
At least 5 years of experience in a diagnostic histopathology and/or immunohistochemistry laboratory.
Practical experience in microtomy and the handling of a wide range of human tissue samples.
Strong knowledge of immunohistochemistry and its applications in diagnostic testing and patient care.
Experience working in regulated laboratory environments, such as CAP/CLIA-accredited laboratories or facilities operating under ISO 15189, HTA, or GCP frameworks.
Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
Demonstrated project management, workload prioritisation, and teamwork skills.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
A strong commitment to laboratory quality, regulatory compliance, and data integrity.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience
Preference may be given to candidates with:
HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist or Clinical Scientist.
Experience in diagnostic product development, design controls, and analytical assay validation.
Hands‑on experience with automated histology and IHC platforms, including Ventana BenchMark, Leica BOND RX, Dako Omnis, and Leica Spectra ST.
Experience leading assay development and optimisation projects.
Previous employment in CAP/CLIA- or ISO 15189-accredited diagnostic laboratories.
Knowledge of digital pathology, whole-slide imaging, and image quality assurance.
An interest in computational pathology and emerging diagnostic technologies.
Salary and Employee Benefits
The original vacancy does not specify a salary. However, the advertised benefits package includes:
25 days of annual leave.
An additional day off for your birthday.
Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
Why Join Avantor?
This opportunity allows experienced laboratory scientists to contribute to advanced diagnostic research and precision medicine initiatives. The successful candidate will work alongside scientists and diagnostics specialists on scientifically complex projects while developing expertise in assay validation, digital pathology, and regulated laboratory operations.
Avantor promotes a collaborative and inclusive working environment focused on scientific innovation, continuous improvement, professional development, and advancing life‑changing science.
Avantor is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. The company states that it does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of protected characteristics under applicable laws.
For reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, applicants can contact recruiting@avantorsciences.com . Additional information about personal data handling is available through Avantor's official Privacy Policy .
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Senior Scientist – Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences (DLS) Job in Cambridge, UK employer: Frontier Perspectives
At Spire Southampton Hospital, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that prioritises staff development and laboratory excellence. Our supportive work culture fosters continuous learning and collaboration, providing unique opportunities for professional growth in a state-of-the-art facility. Join us in delivering high-quality diagnostic services while enjoying a fulfilling career in a vibrant location.
