At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex biological characterisation studies and deliver high-quality analytical services.
- Company: Join Intertek, a global leader in quality and safety solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a dynamic team environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and fair pay.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biopharmaceuticals while solving complex analytical challenges.
- Qualifications: BSc, MSc or PhD in relevant scientific fields with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
Due to continued growth and increasing client demand, Intertek Melbourn is recruiting for an experienced Senior / Principal Biological Characterisation Scientist to join our Biological Characterisation team within our regulated laboratory environment. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and technically strong scientist to support complex biological and biophysical characterisation studies for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical clients within a fast-paced GxP-regulated CRO environment.
We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in complex macromolecular characterisation, high-resolution mass spectrometry, protein and oligonucleotide analysis, and advanced analytical techniques used to support biologics and large molecule development. The level of appointment will be dependent on experience, technical capability, and ability to independently lead client-facing projects.
This role is ideal for a scientist with a strong background in biological and biophysical characterisation of biopharmaceutical products, who enjoys solving complex analytical challenges and working within a collaborative laboratory environment. For Senior Scientist level, you may already possess strong technical expertise and be looking to further develop your industry and client-facing experience. For Principal Scientist level, you will bring significant industry experience, commercial awareness, and the confidence to independently lead complex client projects within a CRO or pharmaceutical environment.
Required skills and experience:- BSc, MSc or PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline
- Strong experience working with biological and biophysical characterisation techniques for biopharmaceutical products
- Experience working with large molecules, proteins, peptides, oligonucleotides and/or biologics
- Strong understanding of high-resolution mass spectrometry techniques and macromolecular characterisation
- Experience of method development, optimisation and validation
- Experience working within a GxP-regulated laboratory environment with a solid understanding of GMP and GLP requirements
- Strong technical troubleshooting and problem-solving capability
- Excellent data interpretation, technical writing and reporting skills
- Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and timelines simultaneously
- Clear written and verbal communication skills, with confidence engaging with colleagues and clients
- Intact mass analysis
- Peptide mapping
- Impurity profiling
- Oligonucleotide and/or mRNA analysis
- Deconvolution software and complex data interpretation
- Spectroscopic techniques (e.g. Circular Dichroism, FTIR)
- Thermal characterisation techniques, including Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and thermal transition analysis
- c-IEF, CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE
- ELISA and plate-based residual impurity assays
- Advanced chromatography or macromolecular characterisation techniques
- Experience supporting pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical clients within a CRO or contract laboratory environment
- Experience mentoring or supervising junior scientists
- Independently leading complex client-facing projects
- Managing analytical studies end-to-end within timeline and budget requirements
- Providing technical leadership and strategic scientific input
- Supporting business development activities and technical client discussions
- Delivering analytical services within a fast-paced commercial laboratory environment
On a daily basis, you will work as a key member of the Biological Characterisation team, delivering high-quality analytical services to pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical clients while supporting the continued growth of our scientific capability. The role involves working across complex projects of varying scale and scope, supporting technical delivery, client relationships, continuous improvement initiatives, and scientific excellence within the laboratory.
Key activities:- Lead complex biological and biophysical characterisation studies for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical clients
- Perform independent method development, optimisation and validation using a range of analytical techniques
- Plan, execute and interpret analytical work with minimal supervision
- Generate high-quality scientific data, reports and technical documentation in accordance with regulatory requirements
- Deliver analytical services in line with GMP and GLP standards
- Troubleshoot complex analytical and technical challenges and develop fit-for-purpose solutions
- Communicate confidently with clients regarding study design, technical strategy and interpretation of results
- Support Business Development through technical input into quotations, proposals and client discussions
- Demonstrate commercial awareness when planning and delivering analytical work
- Support the training, mentoring and development of junior scientists and colleagues
- Collaborate proactively across teams to ensure efficient project delivery and client satisfaction
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and support the growth of the Biological Characterisation capability
All work will be carried out in accordance with Intertek procedures, regulatory standards, and safety requirements.
Join Intertek and become part of our global network of inspiring and entrepreneurial colleagues. We are a global family that values diversity and we thrive working together with precision, pace, and passion. We are working to make the world Ever Better, ensuring the quality, safety and sustainability of products and services used by millions of people around the world.
What we offer:- Competitive salary/benefits
- Development and career opportunities around the Globe
- Working in a highly motivated team and dynamic working environment
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate against applicants, and all qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We are committed to fair and equitable pay and are proud to be a Real Living Wage employer, ensuring our colleagues are compensated in line with independently assessed living standards. We are also committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and employment to support candidates and employees with disabilities or special needs. Intertek operates a preferred supplier arrangement, and we do not accept unsolicited approaches from agencies.
Senior / Principal Biological Characterisation Scientist in Melbourn employer: Intertek
Intertek Melbourn is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment where scientists can thrive in their careers. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and a focus on diversity and inclusion, we empower our team members to tackle complex challenges in the biopharmaceutical sector while contributing to meaningful projects that enhance global quality and safety standards.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Biological Characterisation Scientist in Melbourn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it's not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their work in biological characterisation and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs. We want you to shine and show them why you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical explanations! You might be asked to explain complex concepts during interviews, so make sure you can break them down clearly. We believe that being able to communicate your expertise effectively can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Biological Characterisation Scientist in Melbourn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in biological and biophysical characterisation. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in mass spectrometry or method development!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this opportunity at Intertek Melbourn and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and relevant!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, highlight specific examples where you've tackled complex analytical challenges. We love candidates who can think on their feet and come up with innovative solutions, so share those stories!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Intertek
✨Know Your Techniques
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of biological and biophysical characterisation techniques. Be ready to discuss your experience with high-resolution mass spectrometry, protein analysis, and any advanced analytical methods you've used. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical expertise.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your troubleshooting skills. Think of specific examples where you faced complex analytical challenges and how you resolved them. This is your chance to demonstrate your critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities, which are crucial in this role.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience managing multiple projects simultaneously. Highlight your organisational skills and how you've successfully delivered projects within timelines and budgets. This will reassure the interviewers that you can handle the fast-paced environment they operate in.
✨Engage with Confidence
During the interview, communicate clearly and confidently. Practice discussing your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Engaging with the interviewers shows that you’re not only knowledgeable but also enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to their team.
