Principal Scientist
Principal Scientist

Principal Scientist

Bracknell Full-Time No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead innovative protein production processes and optimise quality in a dynamic AgriTech team.
  • Company: Join a leading AgriTech business with a focus on multidisciplinary collaboration.
  • Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, long-term contract, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in biotechnology while working with cutting-edge techniques and technologies.
  • Qualifications: Post Doc or equivalent experience in Biotechnology with 8+ years in upstream bioprocessing.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on safety and compliance.

Principal Scientist (2‑Year Contract)

Location: Jealott’s Hill, Bracknell

Contract Length: 2 years

Pay Rate: ÂŁ23.89 per hour

Industry: Leading AgriTech and Chemical Research Organisation

We are seeking an experienced Principal Scientist to join a world‑class research team at the Jealott’s Hill International Research Centre. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge discovery, process development, and biotechnology innovation within a leading science‑based organisation.

This two‑year contract role will see you working within a multidisciplinary environment, supporting key programmes that drive the advancement of agricultural and biological sciences.

About the Role

As a Principal Scientist, you will be responsible for shaping and directing upstream process development strategies. Your work will influence a wide range of research activities and contribute to improvements across multiple scientific projects.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading upstream process development for recombinant protein production.
  • Providing scientific leadership and mentorship to project teams.
  • Translating expression optimisation from shake flask formats into bioreactors.
  • Designing and improving expression methods to maximise protein quality.
  • Investigating how expression conditions affect protein quality attributes.
  • Collaborating across functional teams to deliver data‑driven process improvements.
  • Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental policies.

Essential Experience

  • Post‑Doctoral (or equivalent) background in Biotechnology, Microbiology, or related disciplines.
  • 8+ years’ experience in upstream bioprocessing.
  • Strong expertise in recombinant protein expression (bacterial, insect, yeast, or plant systems).
  • Hands‑on experience with bioreactors and scaling processes from shake flask to reactor.
  • Good understanding of protein purification techniques.
  • Proven troubleshooting and innovative problem‑solving abilities.
  • Understanding of how upstream decisions impact downstream processing.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to present complex scientific information clearly.

Desirable Experience

  • Knowledge of construct design and its impact on expression.
  • Experience applying AI or computational tools to experimental design.
  • Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE) approaches.
  • Experience with Ambr250 micro‑bioreactor systems.
  • Background in protein characterisation.
  • Experience with scalable bioprocess technologies such as TFF.
  • Industry experience within Biopharma, AgriTech, or related sectors.

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Principal Scientist employer: SRG

Join a leading AgriTech business in Bracknell as a Principal Scientist, where you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to advancing protein production processes. Our company fosters a collaborative work culture that values innovation and scientific excellence, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With a commitment to employee well-being and safety, we provide a supportive environment that encourages creativity and the pursuit of meaningful projects.
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Contact Detail:

SRG Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Scientist

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the AgriTech and biotech sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your experience with protein expression systems and bioprocessing. This can really set you apart during interviews and showcase your hands-on skills.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your knowledge of upstream processes and how they impact downstream outcomes. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in recombinant protein production and purification methods. Let’s get you that Principal Scientist role!

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Scientist

Protein Expression Systems
Protein Purification Methods
Upstream Bioprocessing
Recombinant Protein Expression
Bioreactor Operations
Process Optimisation
Troubleshooting
Problem Solving
Data Analysis
Communication Skills
Experimental Design
DoE Approaches
Protein Characterisation
Scalable Bioprocess Technologies
HSE Compliance

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Scientist role. Highlight your experience in protein expression systems and purification methods, as these are key to what we’re looking for. Use specific examples that showcase your expertise!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your experience in upstream bioprocessing and any innovative problem-solving you've done.

Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: We love collaboration at StudySmarter! In your application, highlight instances where you’ve worked with multidisciplinary teams. This will show us that you can thrive in our dynamic environment and contribute to overall process improvements.

Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to see your application and get you into the process quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at SRG

✨Know Your Proteins

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of protein expression systems and purification methods. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used in the past and how they relate to the role. This will show that you not only understand the theory but also have practical experience.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Principal Scientist, you'll be expected to lead and guide teams. Prepare examples of how you've provided scientific leadership in previous roles. Think about times when you’ve successfully translated complex concepts to your team or improved processes through collaboration.

✨Data-Driven Approach

Since the role emphasises a data-led approach, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to drive optimisations in upstream processes. Discuss any relevant projects where your analytical skills made a significant impact on protein quality or process improvements.

✨Communicate Clearly

Excellent communication is key for this position. Practice explaining complex scientific concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present your ideas during the interview, so think about how you can convey your expertise clearly and confidently.

Principal Scientist
SRG
Location: Bracknell

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