At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead clinical validation studies for innovative veterinary diagnostics.
- Company: Join ZYTCA, a cutting-edge biotech start-up revolutionising animal health since 2022.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, career growth, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Work with advanced AI-driven solutions and contribute to healthier ecosystems.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact in veterinary diagnostics while collaborating with global experts.
- Qualifications: MSc in relevant fields and 2+ years of experience in clinical research required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
ZYTCA is a rapidly scaling biotech start-up founded in 2022 at Oxford, UK, on a mission to revolutionise veterinary diagnostics. We develop high-sensitivity, rapid qPCR point-of-care tests for companion and large animals—and are pioneering AI-driven pathology solutions. Guided by a One Health philosophy, we believe healthier animals lead to healthier ecosystems and communities.
As our Clinical Validation Scientist, you will spearhead the design, execution and analysis of clinical validation studies for our veterinary diagnostics portfolio. You will produce technical reports summarising the product's analytical sensitivity/specificity, diagnostic sensitivity/specificity, repeatability, reproducibility, and stability. You'll collaborate across R&D, product management, regulatory and commercial teams—and partner with leading reference laboratories worldwide—to ensure our assays meet the highest scientific and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Protocol Development: Lead creation of robust clinical study protocols in collaboration with Product Management, R&D and external labs. Align study design with regulatory guidelines and business objectives.
- Study Execution and Management: Conduct in-house molecular assay validation (PCR, qPCR, ELISA, etc.). Coordinate external clinical trials at partner sites (e.g., veterinary hospital and practices, research institutions and reference laboratories). Track milestones, manage timelines and safeguard data quality and integrity.
- Data Analysis & Reporting: Work with biostatisticians to analyse validation data. Interpret results, draft clinical study reports, manuscripts and stakeholder presentations.
- Regulatory Support: Prepare and review documentation for diagnostic product registration in EU, US and other countries. Engage with regulatory bodies (WOAH, national authorities) to secure approvals and address queries. Ensure the technical documents are prepared in compliance with ISO13485.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Serve as the clinical liaison between R&D, Quality, Product and Commercial teams. Communicate progress, risks and findings to internal and external stakeholders.
Why ZYTCA?
- Join a passionate, supportive team at the forefront of animal health innovation.
- Shape the future of veterinary diagnostics—and make a real-world impact.
- Access clear career progression as we scale globally.
- Enjoy a collaborative culture and a flexible, modern working environment.
Requirements
- MSc or higher in Veterinary Science, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Science or a related discipline.
- ≥2 years' experience in clinical sample handling experiments and research (biotech preferred).
- Good understanding of veterinary virology, microbiology, and epidemiology.
- Hands-on expertise in molecular techniques (PCR/qPCR, ELISA, electrophoresis...).
- Strong grasp of clinical trial methodologies, regulatory frameworks, ISO9001 or ISO13485, and biostatistics.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English (additional EU languages a plus).
- Highly organised, proactive and able to drive projects to completion.
- Proficient with the Microsoft Office suite.
Clinical Validation Scientist in Oxford employer: ZYTCA Animal Health
ZYTCA is an exceptional employer for those passionate about veterinary diagnostics, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in the heart of Oxford. As a rapidly scaling biotech start-up, we provide clear career progression opportunities and foster a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and real-world impact. Join us to be part of a team dedicated to revolutionising animal health while enjoying the benefits of a flexible and modern workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Clinical Validation Scientist in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in veterinary diagnostics and molecular techniques. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the biotech and veterinary fields. Attend relevant conferences or webinars where you can meet people from ZYTCA or similar companies, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with clinical trial methodologies and regulatory frameworks in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects or collaborated across teams in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for animal health and innovation during your interactions with the team. ZYTCA values candidates who are not just qualified but also genuinely enthusiastic about making a difference in veterinary diagnostics.
We think you need these skills to ace Clinical Validation Scientist in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in clinical validation, molecular techniques, and any specific projects that align with ZYTCA's mission. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for veterinary diagnostics and your understanding of the One Health philosophy. Mention specific experiences that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Technical Skills:In your application, emphasise your hands-on expertise in molecular techniques like PCR and qPCR, as well as your familiarity with regulatory frameworks such as ISO13485. This will show that you have the technical background needed for the role.
Showcase Collaboration Experience:Since the role involves cross-functional collaboration, include examples of past teamwork in your application. Highlight how you've successfully communicated with different teams or stakeholders to achieve project goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at ZYTCA Animal Health
✨Understand the Company and Its Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research ZYTCA and its mission to revolutionise veterinary diagnostics. Familiarise yourself with their products and the One Health philosophy. This will show your genuine interest in the company and help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Make sure to emphasise your experience in clinical sample handling and molecular techniques like PCR and qPCR. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully applied these skills, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role of Clinical Validation Scientist.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about your understanding of clinical trial methodologies and regulatory frameworks. Brush up on ISO13485 and biostatistics, as well as any relevant regulations in veterinary diagnostics. Being well-prepared will help you answer confidently and accurately.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Clinical Validation Scientist, you'll need to communicate complex information clearly. Practice explaining your past work and findings in a straightforward manner. Highlight any experience you have in drafting reports or presenting to stakeholders, as this will be crucial for the role.
