R&D Lead Scientist

Slough, UK

Fixed Term Contract

Join Lonza’s Research & Development team in Slough and help shape the next generation of bioprocessing technologies. As an R&D Lead Scientist, you will design and execute innovative purification process studies, using high-throughput workflows and data-driven approaches to develop robust solutions for the biopharmaceutical industry.

This is a fully site-based role. Working together in person supports close, real-time collaboration and the technical precision needed to develop and manufacture medicines to the highest quality and safety standards.

What you will get:

• An agile career and dynamic working culture.

• The opportunity to contribute to innovative bioprocess development within a global life sciences organisation.

• An inclusive and ethical workplace where collaboration and new ideas are valued.

• Compensation programs that recognize high performance.

• A variety of benefits dependent on role and location.

The full list of our global benefits can be found here: https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits.

What you will do:

• Design, plan and independently execute purification process development studies, translating project objectives and scientific questions into clear study plans and deliverables.

• Develop, optimise and implement high-throughput workflows to accelerate process development, improve efficiency and support scalable development pipelines.

• Configure and operate high-throughput equipment, ensuring robust monitoring, data capture and effective troubleshooting.

• Analyse experimental data, draw scientifically sound conclusions and provide clear recommendations to guide process development decisions.

• Identify potential risks to study delivery and implement appropriate mitigation strategies while maintaining high standards of quality, data integrity and safety.

• Work collaboratively with analytical, automation, bioinformatics and data science colleagues, as well as purification development teams, to advance technology implementation.

• Provide scientific and technical leadership within projects, sharing knowledge and contributing to continuous improvement and a culture of innovation.

What we are looking for:

• A strong scientific or engineering background in biotechnology, chemistry, chemical engineering or a related discipline, supported by a BSc/BEng or equivalent experience; postgraduate qualifications such as an MSc/MEng or PhD/EngD are advantageous.

• Advanced laboratory experience, with the ability to independently plan and execute complex experimental studies and translate scientific principles into practical applications.

• Experience developing, optimising or applying high-throughput workflows, laboratory automation or related bioprocessing technologies is highly desirable.

• Strong data analysis and scientific problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret experimental results and communicate clear conclusions and recommendations.

• Excellent technical writing and presentation skills, with experience preparing high-quality reports and communicating scientific ideas effectively to different stakeholders.

• A collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to build effective relationships across multidisciplinary teams and take ownership of deliverables.

• A strong commitment to quality, data integrity, laboratory safety and good laboratory practices, with an interest in the application of bioprocessing technologies within a regulated environment.

About Lonza

At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of.

Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.

Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.