At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative open-source projects in Biometric & Data Science, driving strategic development and collaboration.
- Company: Join UCB, a global biopharmaceutical leader focused on neurology and immunology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive culture that values collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in clinical research while working with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: MSc preferred; experience in open-source ecosystems and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
We are looking for a Senior Project Lead Programmer to join us in our Biometric & Data Science team, to be based in any of our Brussels (Belgium), Monheim (Germany), Slough (UK) or Raleigh (US) offices.
The Senior Project Lead Programmer will drive the strategic development, governance, and execution of open-source initiatives within the Biometrics function. This role is central to advancing innovation in statistical programming, data science, and clinical analytics through open collaboration, transparent tooling, and community engagement. The position will work closely with Programming and Biostatistics teams to ensure open-source efforts are scientifically rigorous, regulatory-compliant, and operationally impactful.
Provide strategic, technical, operating, and tactical transformation change and implementation of state-of-the-art programming and play a central leading role in the continuous transformation of the BDS organization at all levels: talent, capability build/needs, optimized and efficient operating model, initiatives, systems and strategy. Will optimize scoping, input, and solution provision through collaborations cross functionally.
Who You’ll Work With
You will report into the Head of Programming Visualisation & Reporting.
What You’ll Do
- Define and implement the programming team’s open-source innovation strategy aligned with the department goals.
- Develop the vision and roadmap for open-source tools that directly support the Biometrics department, including programming, visualization, and reporting needs but not limited to.
- Drive innovation in clinical trial analyses, using R to improve the efficiency of study results analysis delivery for the Programming team.
- Champion open-source principles across departments including R&D, IT, Regulatory Affairs, and Data Science.
- Represent the company in external open-source consortia (e.g., Pharmaverse, PHUSE, etc.).
- Responsible to lead high complex projects with multiple stakeholders (internal and external stakeholders) and articulated structure.
- Lead and shape the continuous learning and upskilling culture for a modern Biometrics (Programming) organization.
Interested? For this position you’ll need the following education, experience and skills:
- MSc (preferred) in Statistics, Mathematical, Statistical Computer Science or Life Science, or equivalent.
- Deep understanding of open-source ecosystems, licensing models, and software development practices.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across scientific and technical domains.
- Experience with regulatory environments and data standards (e.g., CDISC, HL7).
- Proficiency in platforms like GitHub and tools such as R, Python, Docker, and CI/CD pipelines.
- Experience contributing to or leading open-source projects in clinical research or statistical programming.
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 over 9,000 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.
At UCB, we’ve embraced a hybrid-first approach to work, bringing teams together in local hubs to foster collaborative curiosity. Unless expressly stated in the description or precluded by the nature of the position, roles are hybrid with 40% of your time spent in the office.
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. Please note should your enquiry not relate to adjustments; we will not be able to support you through this channel.
Senior Project Lead Programmer (UK) in London employer: UCB
UCB is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, particularly within the Biometric & Data Science team based in Slough. With a strong commitment to employee growth, UCB offers a supportive environment where individuals can thrive, engage in meaningful projects, and contribute to open-source initiatives that directly impact patient care. The hybrid-first work model enhances flexibility, allowing employees to balance their professional and personal lives while being part of a global community dedicated to advancing science and improving lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Lead Programmer (UK) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those who work at UCB or similar companies. Use LinkedIn to connect and engage with them; you never know who might have a lead on your dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you've got experience with R, Python, or open-source projects, make sure to highlight that in conversations. Share your past projects or contributions to open-source communities to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding UCB's mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with their focus on innovation and patient care. Tailor your responses to show you're not just a fit for the role, but for the company culture too.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at UCB and contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Lead Programmer (UK) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Project Lead Programmer role. Highlight your experience with open-source projects, programming languages like R and Python, and any relevant regulatory knowledge. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about biometrics and data science. Share specific examples of how you've driven innovation in previous roles. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit for our team!
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working with multiple stakeholders, make sure to highlight your communication and collaboration skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked cross-functionally in the past. We love seeing teamwork in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCB
✨Know Your Open-Source Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of open-source ecosystems and licensing models. Be ready to discuss how you've contributed to or led open-source projects, especially in clinical research or statistical programming. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency in R, Python, and tools like GitHub and Docker. You might be asked to solve a problem or explain how you would approach a specific task using these technologies. Practising coding challenges or discussing past projects can help you feel more confident.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since this role involves working with multiple stakeholders, practice articulating complex technical concepts in simple terms. Think about examples where you successfully communicated with non-technical teams or stakeholders. This will highlight your strong communication skills, which are crucial for the position.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with regulatory environments and data standards like CDISC and HL7. Be prepared to discuss how these standards impact programming and data science in clinical trials. Showing that you understand the importance of compliance will set you apart from other candidates.
