At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as an LC-MS Scientist and support drug discovery through sample analysis.
- Company: Avantor, a leader in life-changing science with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, private healthcare, and 25 days holiday plus your birthday off.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and knowledge sharing.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience with advanced LC-MS technologies and make a real impact in drug discovery.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline and 2 years of LC-MS experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The Opportunity:
LC-MS Scientist - Discovery Bioanalysis
Location: Cambridge - Discovery Center
Contract: Temporary (12 months)
About the Role
We are seeking an LC-MS Scientist to join our customer's Discovery Bioanalysis function, embedded within the Spatial and Quantitative Omics Group. This role plays a key part in supporting sample analysis for the LC-MS portfolio, contributing to high-quality, timely bioanalytical data within a drug discovery environment.
You will be responsible for sample preparation, LC-MS instrument operation, and data processing, with a strong grounding in the principles and practical application of mass spectrometry. The role offers exposure to both routine analysis and method development, as well as opportunities to collaborate closely with scientists across multiple disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform routine LC-MS sample analyses efficiently, ensuring high scientific quality and compliance
- Provide direct project support through laboratory-based sample analysis
- Contribute to LC-MS method development and experimental design
- Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and support basic repairs on LC and LC-MS systems, including QQQ and HRMS instruments, with guidance from senior staff
- Manage and organise samples, ensuring appropriate documentation and traceability
- Process, assess, and report data clearly, understanding its relevance within the overall drug discovery context
- Present and discuss experimental data with relevant stakeholders and defend findings when required
- Highlight data quality concerns or technical issues promptly
- Collaborate with colleagues across scientific disciplines to share progress and expertise
- Support laboratory operations through strong housekeeping and sample management practices
- Ensure all work complies with Safety, Health & Environment (SHE), quality and compliance standards, including GLS, Signals ELN, and IBA project tracking tools
- Proactively develop technical knowledge by reviewing scientific literature and engaging with peer scientists
Education, Skills & Experience
Essential
- Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline and/or proven industry experience
- Minimum 2 years' hands-on experience with LC-MS techniques
- Solid understanding of LC-MS theory, principles, and applications
- Strong problem-solving skills with the confidence to act quickly and effectively
- Experience with analytical technologies, either broadly or with deep expertise in LC-MS
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Strong customer-service mindset and ability to work collaboratively
- Highly organised, self-motivated, dependable, and detail-focused
- Flexibility with working hours when required to meet customer and project needs
Desirable
- Pharmaceutical or drug discovery industry experience
- Understanding of multiple R&D disciplines
- Experience with protein or peptide mass spectrometry
- Practical experience in LC-MS instrument troubleshooting
- Knowledge and hands-on experience with HRMS systems
Why Join Us?
This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge Discovery Bioanalysis team working within a highly collaborative and scientific environment. You'll gain hands-on experience with advanced LC-MS technologies while contributing directly to impactful drug discovery programmes.
We offer a competitive and attractive benefits package, including:
- Market-conform salary, aligned with experience and skills
- Annual bonus scheme, recognising individual and team contributions
- Private healthcare, providing peace of mind and access to quality medical support
- 25 days of annual holiday, plus 1 additional paid day off to celebrate your birthday
You’ll work alongside experienced scientists who are committed to knowledge sharing, continuous improvement, and maintaining high scientific standards. This role is ideal for someone looking to further develop their LC-MS expertise within a dynamic and supportive setting.
LC - Cambridge employer: Parent TEST TJ Company 1
Avantor is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Cambridge that fosters scientific innovation and personal growth. With a competitive benefits package, including private healthcare and generous holiday allowances, employees are encouraged to develop their LC-MS expertise while contributing to impactful drug discovery programmes alongside experienced scientists committed to knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land LC - Cambridge
✨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. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your LC-MS expertise. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience and how it relates to the role. Confidence is key, so rehearse until you feel comfortable!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and are genuinely interested in the position.
✨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, you’ll be part of a community that values collaboration and innovation in the scientific field.
We think you need these skills to ace LC - Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the LC-MS Scientist role. Highlight your relevant experience with LC-MS techniques and any specific projects you've worked on that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your skills make you a great fit. Don't just repeat your CV; use this space to showcase your personality and enthusiasm for the position.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles, especially related to LC-MS. We love to see candidates who can think on their feet and come up with effective solutions.
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 and shows us you're serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Parent TEST TJ Company 1
✨Know Your LC-MS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your LC-MS knowledge before the interview. Understand the principles, applications, and common troubleshooting techniques. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with LC-MS systems will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to sample preparation, data processing, and method development. Review relevant literature and be ready to discuss how you've applied your skills in previous roles. This will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and your readiness to contribute to the team.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with scientists from various disciplines, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your communication skills and your ability to work in a team, as these are crucial for success in a dynamic environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the company’s approach to drug discovery. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
