At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative R&D projects in virology and microbiology, driving new product development.
- Company: Join LGC, a global leader in life sciences, dedicated to improving patient outcomes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment that values passion, curiosity, and integrity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the research community with cutting-edge scientific solutions.
- Qualifications: PhD in biology or related field with 5+ years of R&D experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
LGC Genomics and Diagnostics develops and manufactures a comprehensive portfolio of catalogue and custom‑developed diagnostic quality solutions and component materials for the extended life sciences industry. We partner with IVD assay developers, and pharmaceutical, CRO and academic institutions in commercialization activities across the entire diagnostic pipeline. Laboratorians and diagnostic professionals across disciplines of clinical chemistry, immunochemistry, serology, molecular diagnostics, and clinical genomics rely on LGC’s products to support accurate and reliable diagnostic results.
Our operating entities include Maine Standards Company, SeraCare Life Sciences, and Technopath Clinical Diagnostics, which are in vitro diagnostics (IVD) manufacturers of quality measurement tools (calibrators, controls, linearity, EQA/PT, biological materials), the Native Antigen Company, which is a manufacturer and supplier of viral antigens and LGC Proficiency Testing a global leader in PT schemes. We operate FDA‑registered and ISO 13485‑accredited facilities in Maine (USA), Massachusetts (USA), Maryland (USA), Tipperary (Ireland), ISO 9001‑accredited facility in Oxford, UK, and Traverse City, Michigan US.
Each day, our world‑class staff, scientific expertise, operational efficiency, and superior quality systems are ready to support the range of advanced technologies that collectively improve patient outcomes - from the widely adopted and established through to cutting‑edge NGS and precision diagnostics.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Principal Scientist to join LGC’s Research team. This is an outstanding opportunity for a technical expert with deep expertise in recombinant protein expression, virology, or microbiology. Experience in immunoassay development, antibody discovery, or display technologies is ideal.
As a Principal Scientist, you will direct complex scientific programmes covering new product development, technology innovation, and custom/co‑creation projects. You will function in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment, ensuring projects are finalized on time, within budget, and to the highest scientific standards.
Reporting directly to the Director of R&D, you will own project strategy, manage execution, and ensure delivery. You will also mentor colleagues and help foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage complex, multi‑disciplinary R&D projects, ensuring timely and efficient delivery.
- Build and implement scientific project plans, workflows, and experimental strategies within your area of expertise.
- Take full responsibility for project planning, costing, execution, and completion, often across multiple parallel workstreams.
- Act as a technical authority, continuously refining methodologies and educating team members in your specialist domain.
- Communicate effectively with internal and external collaborators. Present results and progress updates to senior management, customers, and the wider LGC organisation. Clearly explain the scientific rationale, technical challenges, and strategic value of projects.
- Critically assess data and literature, confidently interpreting and communicating findings from published biological research to diverse audiences.
- Identify and resolve technical challenges through structured root‑cause analysis and innovative problem‑solving.
- Develop and maintain high‑quality documentation, including SOPs, protocols, and batch production records.
- Work safely and confidently within a BSL‑2 laboratory, handling viral, bacterial, and protozoal pathogens in compliance with all relevant biosafety regulations.
- Contribute to and thrive in a multidisciplinary, collaborative team environment, demonstrating strong organisational skills and accountability.
Qualifications
- PhD in biology or related subjects; or equivalent scientific experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in a R&D laboratory, ideally in a commercial entity.
- Proven capability to guide intricate scientific projects from inception through to completion.
- Strong analytical approach with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve scientific challenges independently.
- Strong communication skills, able to convey complex technical concepts clearly to a variety of audiences.
- Highly organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
- Confident in the use of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and AI tools.
- Experience working in a quality regulated and/or biosafety level 2 environment is desirable.
LGC is committed to encouraging an inclusive and collaborative environment where every team member can succeed. Join us in our mission to deliver world‑class scientific solutions and make a significant impact in the research community. Your expertise and ambition will be instrumental in helping us achieve outstanding results!
Additional Information
ABOUT LGC:
LGC is a leading, global life science tools company, providing mission‑critical components and solutions into high‑growth application areas across the human healthcare and applied market segments. Its high‑quality product portfolio is comprised of mission‑critical tools for genomic analysis and for quality assurance applications, which are typically embedded and recurring within our customers’ products and workflows and are valued for their performance, quality, and range.
OUR VALUES
- PASSION
- CURIOSITY
- INTEGRITY
- BRILLIANCE
- RESPECT
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, or trade union membership.
Principal Scientist • Kidlington, OXFORDSHIRE, GB
Principal Scientist in Harwell employer: LGC
LGC is an exceptional employer located in Greater London, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises work-life balance and inclusivity. As an Analytics Business Partner, you will have access to robust employee growth opportunities, including professional development and training in advanced analytical tools like Tableau. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Scientist in Harwell
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Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at LGC
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at LGC. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
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Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
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