At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative screening and automation projects in biotech to accelerate drug discovery.
- Company: Join a pioneering biotechnology company with a strong focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, high visibility role, and the chance to shape a new function.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and mentorship.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug discovery while working with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: PhD in a scientific discipline and 10+ years in biotech or pharma.
Are you ready to lead cutting-edge screening and automation projects that accelerate breakthroughs in biotech? Proclinical is working alongside an innovative biotechnology company with an enviable portfolio of assets seeking an experienced Director of Screening & Automation to establish and lead a newly created function supporting a growing drug discovery pipeline. This is a unique opportunity for a scientific leader with expertise in high-throughput screening (HTS), laboratory automation, assay development, and drug discovery technologies to build and scale a world-class screening capability. Reporting into senior Discovery leadership, the successful candidate will play a critical role in accelerating target validation, hit identification, and early-stage therapeutic discovery.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Lead the development of automation strategies, high-throughput screening platforms, and functional assay capabilities that support multiple discovery programmes.
- Recruit and mentor a team of scientists and technical specialists while driving innovation across screening workflows and laboratory technologies.
Skills & Requirements:
- PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
- 10+ years' experience within biotechnology or pharmaceutical drug discovery environments.
- Significant leadership experience managing and developing scientific teams.
- Deep expertise in laboratory automation, liquid handling platforms, robotic systems, and screening technologies.
- Strong background in high-throughput screening and assay development.
- Experience developing cell-based, biochemical, and target engagement assays.
- Proven track record implementing new technologies that have impacted drug discovery productivity.
- Excellent cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills.
- Acoustic liquid handling experience.
- High-content imaging expertise.
- LIMS and scientific data management experience.
- Experience managing external vendors, technology providers, and CROs.
The Director, Screening & Automation's responsibilities will be:
- Build, lead and develop a high-performing Screening & Automation team.
- Define and execute the laboratory automation strategy to support drug discovery objectives.
- Lead the design, optimisation, and execution of high-throughput screening campaigns.
- Oversee the development and transfer of cell-based and biochemical assays onto automated platforms.
- Implement innovative automation technologies, workflows, and screening solutions to improve efficiency and scalability.
- Partner closely with biology, pharmacology, chemistry, and discovery teams to support portfolio progression.
- Ensure high-quality screening data generation, operational excellence, and equipment performance.
- Manage external vendors, technology partners, and CRO collaborations where appropriate.
Compensation: $200,000 to $230,000 per annum.
Why Apply?
- Opportunity to build and shape a newly established function.
- High visibility role with significant influence on discovery strategy.
- Work at the forefront of drug discovery, screening sciences, and laboratory automation.
- Join a collaborative and scientifically ambitious organisation committed to innovation and pipeline growth.
If you are having difficulty in applying or if you have any questions, please contact Neil Walton at (url removed). If you are interested in applying to this exciting opportunity, then please click 'Apply' or to speak to one of our specialists please request a call back at the top of this page.
Proclinical is a leading life sciences recruiter focused on finding exceptional people and matching them with the finest positions across the globe. Proclinical is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy. By submitting this application, you confirm that you've read and understood our privacy policy, which informs you how we process and safeguard your data.
Director, Screening & Automation in Newark on Trent employer: ProClinical
Join a globally recognised biopharmaceutical organisation that prioritises innovation and collaboration in the field of protein science and biologic drug development. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to continuous learning opportunities and be part of a supportive team dedicated to delivering life-changing therapies. Located in a vibrant area, this role not only offers meaningful work but also a dynamic work culture that values your contributions and fosters professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Screening & Automation in Newark on Trent
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like ProClinical. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like ProClinical!
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Screening & Automation in Newark on Trent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show ProClinical that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at ProClinical.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that ProClinical does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at ProClinical
✨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 ProClinical. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
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.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into ProClinical's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at ProClinical. This shows your passion for the industry!
