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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead automation in drug discovery, integrating cutting-edge technologies into scientific workflows.
- Company: Join GSK, a leader in health innovation and technology-driven solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, healthcare, hybrid work model, and pension plan.
- Why this job: Shape the future of drug discovery with innovative automation solutions.
- Qualifications: Degree in Life Science or IT, with experience in lab automation and network systems.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
GSK is searching for experienced and technically adept Principal Scientists to join our new RTech Automation team within Data, Automation & Predictive Sciences (DAPS) in our Research Technologies (RTech) division. RTech Automation will spearhead the integration of automation technologies into our scientific workflows to deliver biology and data at scale. A critical component of RTech's vision as a technologyâdriven leader in target discovery and molecule design is the establishment of an integrated designâgenerateâanalyzeâmodelâpredict cycle within DAPS, supported by this centralized Automation/Engineering team. The role will report to RTech Automation Platforms Lead, UK and will play a role in shaping our vision and strategy in automating drug discovery workflows, while also providing technical expertise.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide technical expertise to design and deploy labâinâaâloop systems and orchestrated automation platforms, ensuring seamless data flow and system interoperability.
- Oversee network infrastructure for lab automation platforms, handling design, deployment, support, installation, configuration, qualification, and operational handover.
- Act as the main technical contact between research scientists, automation engineers, and GSK Tech to gather requirements, set priorities, deliver solutions, and promote ongoing improvements.
- Implement, configure and maintain secure network connectivity for automation systems, including TCP/IP networking, OT interfaces, and ensure compliance with GSK technology and security standards.
- Administer and troubleshoot automation hardware and software on Windows and Linux, independently resolving incidents and implementing shortâterm workarounds to minimise research disruption.
- Support application and database hosting, deployment and administration in onâpremises and cloud (GCP, Azure) environments, including configuration of VMs, containers, and platform services relevant to automation applications.
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, runbooks, and training materials for automation platforms, while collaborating with Cyber Security and OT teams to assess and remediate security risks.
- Ensure software ecosystems are designed, deployed and maintained according to GSK's technology, security and application lifecycle standards so that research teams can reliably accelerate discovery workflows.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Life Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Bioinformatics, and significant practical experience in IT/OT roles supporting automation, infrastructure or applications in life sciences or research environments.
- Demonstrated experience with network, TCP/IP protocols, cyber security principles, secure configuration and system administration in lab automation settings, including practical experience configuring network interfaces for devices and instrument control systems.
- Experience with integrated automation systems in a research or laboratory environment (such as HighResBio, Thermo, Biosero, etc.), scheduling software (Momentum, Cellario, GreenButtonGo), APIs, middleware, data exchange protocols and programming languages such as Python, R, C#, or Java.
- Proficiency in operating systems (Windows Server/Client, Linux), networking (TCP/IP, VLANs, firewalls, OT segmentation), cloud platforms (GCP, Azure), and databases (Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL).
- Experience with scripting (Python, PowerShell, Bash), monitoring and ticketing tools (ServiceNow), version control, CI/CD fundamentals, and data visualisation/informatics tools (Tibco Spotfire, Signals Vitro Vivo).
- Proven project management skills with the ability to oversee multiple initiatives while collaborating effectively and fostering innovation.
- Strong analytical, problemâsolving, and communication abilities, enabling swift resolution of technical challenges and clear engagement with diverse stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
- Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic lab notebooks (ELNs).
- Strong analytical skills and experience with data visualization tools.
- Ability to thrive in a fastâpaced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
GSK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This ensures that all qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law.
Benefits & Working Conditions
We offer a competitive salary, an annual bonus based on company performance, healthcare and wellbeing programmes, pension plan membership, and shares and savings programme. We embrace modern work practices; our Performance with Choice programme offers a hybrid working model, empowering you to find the optimal balance between remote and inâoffice work.
About GSK
GSK fosters a culture ambitious for patients, accountable for impact, and committed to doing the right thing. We unite science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together, aiming to positively impact the health of 2.5 billion people by the end of the decade.
Principal Scientist, Automation in Stevenage employer: Gsk
Contact Detail:
Gsk Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Principal Scientist, Automation in Stevenage
â¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the automation and life sciences fields on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and donât hesitate to ask for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
â¨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a GitHub repository showcasing your projects related to automation and data management. This gives potential employers a tangible look at what you can do and sets you apart from the crowd.
â¨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common technical questions related to lab automation and network infrastructure. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
â¨Tip Number 4
Donât forget to apply through our website! Weâre always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. Tailor your application to highlight your experience with automation systems and your ability to collaborate across teams â itâs what we love to see!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Scientist, Automation in Stevenage
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in automation and lab systems. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so donât hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role is all about technical know-how, be sure to include specific examples of your experience with network protocols, automation platforms, and any programming languages youâre proficient in. We love seeing concrete evidence of your capabilities!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application thatâs easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Donât forget to submit your application through our website! Itâs the best way for us to receive your details and ensures youâre considered for the role. Plus, itâs super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gsk
â¨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure youâre well-versed in the specific automation technologies and systems mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your knowledge of TCP/IP protocols, network infrastructure, and lab automation platforms. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that youâre not just familiar with them, but that you can also contribute to the team from day one.
â¨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled technical challenges in previous roles. Think about situations where you had to troubleshoot automation hardware or software issues. Highlight your analytical skills and how you resolved incidents quickly to minimise disruption. This will demonstrate your ability to think on your feet and adapt to fast-paced environments.
â¨Communicate Clearly with Stakeholders
Since this role involves acting as a liaison between research scientists and automation engineers, practice articulating complex technical concepts in simple terms. Be ready to discuss how youâve successfully gathered requirements and delivered solutions in past projects. Clear communication is key to fostering collaboration and innovation.
â¨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific scenarios related to lab automation and data management. Think through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would approach them. This will not only showcase your technical expertise but also your strategic thinking and project management skills.
