At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in Separation Science and mentor junior scientists.
- Company: Join a global leader in scientific discovery with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, private medical insurance, and enhanced family policies.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug discovery while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: PhD or master's in a scientific discipline with experience in Separation Science.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About Sygnature Discovery
At Sygnature Discovery, we create exceptional scientific outcomes. For our customers, who bring life‑changing medicines to patients; and for our people, who help make this possible. We’re 700+ scientists from over 50 countries, working as one across Europe and North America. With no competing internal programs, we offer total confidentiality and commitment. Over the past 20 years, we’ve earned a track record of real impact: 60+ advanced candidates, 250 patents filed, 200+ active projects. Over 90% of our customers choose to stay with us – from biotechs racing to clinic to pharma companies that need specialised expertise for targeted challenges.
About the role
A rare opportunity has become available to join our Separation Science Chemistry team in Nottingham. This is a full‑time, laboratory‑based position. As a Principal / Lead Scientist, you will act as a technical expert within Separation Science, supporting integrated client projects and specialist analytical and purification services. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across Chemistry, DMPK, Formulation and Bioscience, helping to shape scientific direction and strengthen our analytical and purification capabilities. You will also support, coach and develop junior chromatographers, helping to build their technical capability and scientific judgement. Experience managing, mentoring or coaching scientists is therefore essential. This role offers the chance to work across a broad and varied portfolio of projects, using a range of tools and instrumentation, including Supercritical Fluid Chromatography, to analyse and interpret complex data. If you have gained your Separation Science experience within academia, a CRO, biotech or pharmaceutical environment and are looking for an opportunity to broaden your impact across a diverse portfolio of projects, we´d love to hear from you.
Role Responsibilities
- Oversee and contribute to the purification lifecycle from crude to pure material
- Provide subject matter expertise across drug discovery programmes influencing compound progression and workflow decisions to internal and external customers
- Ensure high quality experimental design, execution and reporting across multiple diverse projects
- Act as a technical expert for all instrumentation, partnering with vendors and training of internal team members
- Represent Separation Science in internal forums and external collaborations
- Mentor and develop scientists, fostering a high-performance, collaborative team culture
- Key role in the integration and application of AI and machine learning approaches to optimise chromatographic workflows
Skills & Qualifications
- PhD in a Scientific Discipline or master’s degree and experience in a Separation Science
- Proven track record of line management and ability to manage small (4-6 people) scientific teams.
- Strong communication skills are important, as you will need to explain complex scientific and technical information clearly to clients and internal stakeholders at all levels.
- Strong mentoring and coaching skills, with experience in developing junior chromatographers
- Implemented or have an understanding of AI and ML models to improve chromatographic automation
- Extensive knowledge and experience of state‑of‑the‑art preparative and analytical instrumentation with the ability to identify and troubleshoot equipment issues
- Innovation‑driven mindset, continuously seeking improvements in technology and workflow
- Ability to code chromatographic software and software / LIMS platforms is also desirable
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Private Medical Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Enhanced Family Friendly Policies
- Sygnature Group Pension Scheme
- 1 paid volunteer day per year
Please note
The advert may close early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this opportunity.
Principal / Lead Separation Scientist (Chemistry) in Nottingham employer: Sygnature Discovery
At Sygnature Discovery, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our scientists to make a real impact in the field of drug discovery. Located in Nottingham, our team enjoys a supportive environment with ample opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and the chance to work on diverse projects that contribute to life-changing medicines. With competitive benefits including private medical insurance, enhanced family-friendly policies, and a commitment to employee well-being, Sygnature Discovery is an exceptional employer for those looking to advance their careers in a meaningful way.
