At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop APIs to connect scientific data with software tools for researchers.
- Company: Established drug discovery organisation focused on innovative informatics solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to impact real-world research.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team with opportunities for growth and impactful work.
- Why this job: Make a difference in drug discovery by leveraging your backend skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in software engineering, strong backend/API focus, and familiarity with drug discovery.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are working with a well-established drug discovery organisation to recruit an Informatics Specialist on a two year fixed term basis. This is a technical, backend-focused role sitting within a broader informatics function, where you will play a central part in connecting complex scientific data with the software tools used by researchers and scientists across the business.
The Role
You will be responsible for the design, development and maintenance of production-ready APIs that expose scientific data across the organisation. Working closely with the Head of Informatics, you will take ownership of relational database models, lead ORM implementation and ensure data pipelines are robust, scalable and fit for purpose in a high-dimensional screening environment. Day to day you can expect to be working across API architecture, database performance tuning, third-party software integration and automated data pipelines, with a real focus on quality and developer experience.
What you will be doing:
- Building and deploying RESTful or GraphQL APIs using FastAPI, Flask or Spring Boot
- Leading implementation of complex data relations using SQLAlchemy, Django ORM or JPA/Hibernate, with a strong focus on query optimisation and performance
- Evolving and maintaining relational database models to support complex molecular and screening data
- Resolving bottlenecks in data retrieval through indexing strategies, ORM-generated SQL optimisation and caching
- Establishing and enforcing API standards across the team, including OpenAPI/Swagger documentation
- Building connectors to integrate third-party scientific tools such as Dotmatics, Revvity Signals or Titian Mosaic with internal data stores
- Designing and maintaining automated pipelines to move data from instruments and LIMS into a centralised data warehouse
What we are looking for:
- 3 to 5 years of professional experience in a software engineering or informatics role with a strong backend and API focus
- Hands-on experience with SQLAlchemy (Python) or JPA/Hibernate (Java) for complex relational mappings and performance tuning
- Strong command of Python (FastAPI/Flask) or Java (Spring ecosystem)
- Deep understanding of PostgreSQL or MySQL, including execution plan analysis and normalisation
- Familiarity with Docker, CI/CD pipelines (GitHub/GitLab Actions) and API security practices (OAuth2, JWT)
- A background in or genuine familiarity with the drug discovery process and its supporting tools
- A degree in Computer Science, Bioinformatics or a related discipline
- Experience with Celery or Redis for managing long-running scientific computations would be a bonus, as would relevant industry certifications.
Interested? If you have a background in scientific software or informatics and are looking for a role where your backend and API work has genuine research impact, we would love to hear from you. Get in touch with the team at Pure Resourcing Solutions for a confidential conversation.
Informatics Specialist in Cambridge employer: Pure Resourcing Solutions
Join a leading drug discovery organisation that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work culture where your contributions directly impact scientific research. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to ongoing training and growth opportunities, all while working in a supportive environment that encourages creativity and excellence. Located in a vibrant area, this role not only provides meaningful work but also the chance to be part of a team dedicated to advancing healthcare solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Informatics Specialist in Cambridge
✨Get Familiar with Temporary Roles in Pharma
Temporary positions in the pharmaceutical industry often arise during specific periods, like product launches or seasonal hiring sprints. Keep an eye on timelines and be proactive in reaching out to companies, especially around these busy times!
✨Join Pharma Networking Events
Participate in local and virtual pharmaceutical networking events or job fairs. This is a fantastic way to get in front of hiring managers and learn more about temporary opportunities directly from those in the know.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’re a student or recent grad, tap into your university’s career services which often have specific connections to pharma companies looking to fill temporary roles. They might even have exclusive internship programmes that lead to temp jobs!
✨Be Visible Online and Offline
Utilise platforms like LinkedIn to share your interests in temporary roles and connect with industry professionals. Plus, consider writing about relevant pharmaceutical topics to showcase your knowledge and enthusiasm—this can help you stand out to hiring companies like Pure Resourcing Solutions.
We think you need these skills to ace Informatics Specialist in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:In the pharmaceutical industry, it's crucial to showcase any relevant experience you have, whether it's internships, lab work, or coursework. Let’s emphasise your familiarity with drug development processes and any hands-on experience you've had with lab equipment or clinical trials in your CV.
Mention Certifications and Training:If you’ve got any certifications relevant to pharmaceuticals, like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) or a certification in pharmacovigilance, make sure to include them. These show your commitment to the field and can make a positive impact on your application for a temporary role at Pure Resourcing Solutions.
Show Your Flexibility and Availability:Temporary positions often require immediate availability and flexibility in working hours. In your cover letter, make it clear when you can start and your ability to adapt to changing schedules, as this is key to a successful application.
Express Your Learning Goals:Since this is a temporary role, we suggest discussing what you hope to learn or gain from the experience at Pure Resourcing Solutions. This not only shows your eagerness but also helps employers see you as someone who’s ready to make the most out of the opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pure Resourcing Solutions
✨Know Your Regulations
In the pharmaceutical industry, it’s crucial to understand key regulations like GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or GCP (Good Clinical Practices). Brush up on these standards and be ready to discuss how they influence your work approach during your interview with Pure Resourcing Solutions.
✨Emphasise Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, show that you're ready to hit the ground running. Share examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to adapt quickly to new environments or changes, especially in a fast-paced setting like pharmaceuticals.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills and Tools
Whether it’s laboratory techniques or software like LabWare or SAS, make sure you can confidently talk about your technical skills. If you have experience with any specific tools used in previous roles, relate that directly to how it can help Pure Resourcing Solutions achieve its goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Be ready for technical questions related to drug development processes or quality assurance. We should expect scenarios where you might have to troubleshoot a problem or suggest improvements on a project—this shows your problem-solving capability in a temporary role.
