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- Tasks: Lead projects in protein characterisation and manage early-phase project activities.
- Company: Join UCB, a global biopharmaceutical leader focused on neurology and immunology.
- Benefits: Inclusive culture, career growth opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation for patient care.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree required; advanced degrees preferred with extensive industry experience.
- Other info: Collaborate with global teams and engage in continuous learning.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
We are looking for a Senior Scientist ( Biological Characterization Project Lead ) who is analytical, collaborative, and proactive to join our Characterisation and Material Sciences (CMS) department, based out of our offices in Slough, UK or Braine l'Alleud, Belgium.
About the Role
You will join a team of 60 experienced scientists responsible for the comprehensive characterisation of proteins using advanced techniques such as mass spectrometry, AUC, and higher-order methods. Your work will help elucidate protein structure, function, degradation pathways, and support critical quality attribute (CQA) assessment and control strategies. This role is not lab-based and focuses on supporting early-phase projects as they prepare for INDs, requiring both technical expertise and strong project management skills.
You will collaborate with colleagues in characterisation, formulation, analytical method development, upstream and downstream science, devices, quality control, stability, statistics, regulatory, and quality assurance. You'll also interact with teams across the UK, Belgium, Switzerland, the US, contract labs, and academic partners. The environment is dynamic, with multiple parallel activities and changing priorities, so adaptability and minimal supervision are essential.
Who You'll Work With
You will work closely with scientists across CMS, formulation, analytical, and regulatory teams, as well as with external contract labs and academic collaborators. You'll present data and insights to project teams and management, ensuring alignment and quality throughout the project lifecycle.
What You'll Do
- Represent early-stage projects both technically and as a project manager
- Input into the design of characterisation work packages
- Contribute to critical quality attribute (CQA) assessments
- Author and review analytical aspects of regulatory submissions, protocols, and reports
- Liaise with scientists to obtain and interpret data
- Communicate issues and findings to principal scientists and management
- Manage documentation, including risk assessments and quality management system activities
- Ensure quality processes are maintained and followed
- Engage in self-learning by reviewing relevant scientific literature
Interested? For this role, you'll need:
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's or PhD preferred
- At least 5-10 years of industrial experience in biotechnology or pharmaceutical characterisation, with sustained project representation experience
- Excellent knowledge of protein chemistry
- Proficiency in electronic document management systems, quality management systems, and risk databases
- Experience working with internal regulatory teams and responding to regulatory agency submissions
Are you ready to 'go beyond' to create value and make your mark for patients? If this sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you!
About us
UCB is a global biopharmaceutical company, focusing on neurology and immunology. We are around 8,500 people in all four corners of the globe, inspired by patients and driven by science.
Why work with us?
At UCB, we don't just complete tasks, we create value. We aren't afraid to push forward, collaborate, and innovate to make our mark for patients. We have a caring, supportive culture where everyone feels included, respected, and has equal opportunities to do their best work. We 'go beyond' to create value for our patients, and always with a human focus, whether that's on our patients, our employees, or our planet. Working for us, you will discover a place where you can grow, and have the freedom to carve your own career path to achieve your full potential.
UCB is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions will be made without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable laws.
Should you require any adjustments to our process to assist you in demonstrating your strengths and capabilities contact us on EMEA-Reasonable_Accommodation@ucb.com . Please note should your enquiry not relate to adjustments; we will not be able to support you through this channel.
Biological Characterization Project Lead (UK) employer: UCB
Contact Detail:
UCB Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Biological Characterization Project Lead (UK)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field through LinkedIn or industry events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your project management skills. We want to see how you handle challenges and collaborate with teams!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! In our dynamic environment, being able to pivot and manage multiple priorities is key. Share examples of how you've thrived in changing situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Biological Characterization Project Lead (UK)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Biological Characterization Project Lead role. Highlight your project management experience and technical expertise in protein chemistry to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our dynamic team. Don’t forget to mention your collaborative spirit!
Showcase Your Adaptability: In a fast-paced environment like ours, adaptability is key. Share examples from your past where you've successfully navigated changing priorities or tackled multiple projects at once. We love to see that proactive attitude!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCB
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of protein chemistry and the advanced techniques mentioned in the job description, like mass spectrometry and AUC. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a fit for the role but also genuinely interested in the work.
✨Show Your Project Management Skills
Since this role involves project management, be prepared to share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led projects. Highlight how you managed timelines, collaborated with different teams, and adapted to changing priorities. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a dynamic environment.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating complex scientific concepts in a clear and concise manner. You’ll need to present data and insights to various teams, so being able to communicate effectively is key. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your delivery.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
This role requires working closely with various teams, so be ready to discuss your collaborative experiences. Share specific instances where you’ve worked with cross-functional teams or external partners, and how you ensured alignment and quality throughout the project lifecycle.
