At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and synthesis of synthetic peptides for innovative diagnostic tools.
- Company: Join Virax Biolabs, a cutting-edge biotech company in Glasgow.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, stock options, and generous leave.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health with precision diagnostics and peptide science.
- Qualifications: Experience in peptide synthesis and analytical techniques required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
Virax Biolabs UK Ltd is an innovative biotechnology company focused on immune-response detection technologies.
The company is developing its flagship Virax Immune™ profiling platform, aimed at supporting the development of in vitro diagnostic (IVD) assays for chronic and post-infectious conditions, including Long Covid, Lyme disease and ME/CFS.
In parallel, Virax Biolabs is expanding Immune Select, a portfolio of products and services supporting immunology and clinical research.
We are recruiting a Peptide Scientist to join our team at Bio City Glasgow.
In this role, you will lead the design, synthesis, and analytical characterisation of synthetic peptides supporting both our diagnostic platform development and research product activities.
The position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the development of precision diagnostic tools, while building and expanding our in-house peptide manufacturing capabilities.
Key Responsibilities Design, plan, and execute synthetic peptide projects from concept to completion, including selection of synthesis strategy, protecting group chemistry, and scale considerations.
Perform solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and systematically optimise synthesis protocols to improve yield, purity, and reproducibility.
Purify and characterise peptides using HPLC, LC-MS, and complementary analytical techniques; assess and document peptide identity, purity, and stability.
Design experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot complex technical issues across synthesis and analytical workflows.
Train and mentor technicians and students in laboratory techniques, instrument operation, and best practices for peptide science.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams across R or MSc with 4 - 5 years of relevant research or industry experience.
Demonstrated experience in peptide synthesis and purification techniques, including solid-phase approaches.
Proficiency with analytical methods including HPLC, LC-MS, and spectroscopy for peptide characterisation.
Strong documentation practices and data interpretation skills, with attention to detail and a structured approach to experimental work.
Well-organised and confident working in a quality-conscious laboratory environment.
Preferred (but not essential): Experience with large-scale or automated SPPS platforms, or plate-based peptide synthesisers.
Knowledge of peptide and protein modifications, including labelling, conjugation, and post-synthetic chemical modifications.
What Virax Biolabs Offers We offer a competitive compensation package, designed to reward performance while supporting long-term growth and flexibility.
Competitive base salary, aligned with experience Performance-based bonus structure Employee stock option scheme 28 days' annual leave plus UK bank holidays Pension scheme with 6% employer and 2% employee contributions
Scientist - Peptide Chemistry employer: Virax Biolabs
At Virax Biolabs, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our R&D Scientists to make meaningful contributions to the field of immunology. Located in a vibrant area, we offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technologies in IVD development, ensuring that our employees are at the forefront of scientific advancement.
