Scientist I

Are You Ready to Make an Impact at RSSL? Join Our Mission to Transform Lives Through Science, Innovation and Collaboration. At Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL), we lead the way in scientific analysis, research, consultancy, and training. We provide services to the food, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods industries, as well as our parent company, Mondelez International. RSSL is dedicated to delivering world-class scientific solutions and outstanding customer service.

Purpose: The role of Scientist I within the Material Sciences group at RSSL is responsible for performing a range of routine and investigative analyses ensuring that projects are completed effectively and meet the customer’s contractual agreements. Perform analysis on a wide range of products across food and pharmaceutical sectors. This role will need to work in accordance with the quality standards at RSSL. This role focuses on the identification of foreign bodies using a range of analytical techniques such as Light Microscopy, FTIR, SEM, X-Ray Microanalysis, Image analysis and Micro-CT.

Primary Accountabilities / Responsibilities:

• Technical: Provide high quality customer service at all times by ensuring effective organisation of assigned workload, integrity of analytical data generated and timely/accurate provision of results. Perform method validation following protocols. Perform a range of routine and investigational analysis using microscopy techniques under supervision of a senior member of staff. To perform analytical work following study protocols or pharmacopoeia or internal test methods. Operate and maintain and troubleshoot basic lab equipment as directed. Be proficient in the use of generic and specific software packages required for the role: Laboratory’s LIMS system and Q-Pulse and other instrument specific software such as imaging software. Perform transcription checking for factual data (e.g. reagents) and review non GMP projects on LIMS. Provide training in routine activities and methods as required. Perform Lab administration and housekeeping duties as directed. Will be expected to work in different laboratories if the demand is required.
• Communication & Influence: Work as part of an efficient analytical team. Participate in the preparation of client quotes. Deliver internal presentations across groups.
• QEHS: Work to the highest standards of safety and quality by ensuring that appropriate COSHHs, risk assessments and SOPs are understood and followed. To complete assigned quality actions on a timely manner. Assist with the documentation of SOPs for simple equipment and tests and generation of Risk Assessments and COSHH. To maintain a clean, tidy and safe working environment. To understand and work to the requirements of GMP and UKAS. Ensure training records are accurate.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience and Language Requirements: Educated to Degree / HNC level in a relevant scientific discipline or equivalent relevant experience in a laboratory. Good understanding of basic lab equipment. Accountable, honest, hardworking and able to work efficiently in a team. Meticulous attention to detail and an ability to follow written instructions. Flexible and adaptable to meet customer/business requirements. Good written and verbal communication skills. Self-motivated, enthusiastic and quick to learn. Computer literate in standard MS office applications. Well organized and capable of working on multiple activities concurrently. 2-3 years of practical experience in microscopy techniques and/or experience related to the identification of foreign bodies preferred. Scientific understanding and ability to conduct chemical analysis in relevant area under supervision. Experience of working in a regulated environment. English fluency (written and spoken).

In return for your commitment, drive and enthusiasm, we offer an attractive benefits package within a highly successful international business that offers financial rewards and resources, including: Opportunities to learn and develop, Performance Related Bonus scheme, Contributory pension (between 8% to 11% employer contribution), Life assurance, 27 days holiday allowance (possibility to buy 5 extra days) + bank holidays, Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), A flexible benefits programme (Gym discounts, private health insurance, restaurant discounts, etc).

RSSL is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.