Job Description – Senior Scientist I/II (Histology)
Reports To: Head of Research
Location: Limavady
Salary Band: £35,000 – £45,000 per annum (DOE)
1. Job Purpose
Lead and deliver high-quality histology and digital pathology projects by independently managing all stages of tissue preparation, staining, slide production, and microscopy. This includes optimising H&E, special stains, IHC and IF protocols, ensuring technical excellence and reproducibility. You will acquire high-resolution images using advanced microscopy systems and perform robust quantitative analysis through QuPath or equivalent software. By integrating morphological and biomarker data, you will generate clear, scientifically rigorous outputs that support study objectives and client reporting. You will uphold strict quality, documentation, and compliance standards throughout all laboratory workflows.
2. Key Working Relationships
Reports to: Head of Research
Internal: Study Directors, Scientists, Technicians, Quality Team
External: Clients (as required) and partners
3. Main Duties and Responsibilities
Scientific Delivery:
* Lead histology workflows.
* Develop, optimise and validate staining protocols as required for clients or internal model development.
* Perform quantitative image analysis using industry-standard software (e.g., QuPath) to deliver statistically rigorous biomarker data and present results.
* Integrate morphological observations with quantitative data to generate insightful interpretations.
Project Oversight:
* Independently manage daily progress of assigned projects, ensuring milestones and deadlines are met.
* Prepare and present clear, detailed technical updates, interim reports, and final study data to clients and internal teams.
* Author and review scientific reports, method SOPs, and contribute to proposals and publications.
Team Mentoring:
* Provide technical training, guidance, and mentorship to junior scientists and technicians.
* Foster a collaborative, innovative, and quality-focused laboratory environment.
* Contribute to departmental initiatives for continuous improvement of scientific capabilities and operational efficiency.
Data & Documentation:
* Ensure all work is conducted in compliance with relevant regulatory standards, company SOPs, and client-specific requirements.
* Maintain accurate, detailed records of experiments and results.
* Actively participate in internal and external audits.
Client Communication:
* Prepare written reports and presentations describing project findings.
* Represent the company professionally at client meetings and networking events.
4. Qualifications and Experience
Essential
* MSc/PhD in a relevant discipline, such as Biomedical Science, Histology, Pathology, Life Sciences or a closely related field, demonstrating strong academic training and technical understanding.
* Equivalent professional experience (3+ years in the NHS, academia, or a pharmaceutical/CRO) will be considered in lieu of a postgraduate degree.
* Extensive practical histology experience, including hands‑on tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, and a range of staining techniques with a proven ability to produce high‑quality, reproducible slides.
* Demonstrated proficiency in developing, troubleshooting, and validating IHC/IF assays.
* Experience with digital image analysis, using platforms such as QuPath or equivalent tools, with the ability to design analysis workflows, quantify biomarkers, and interpret complex morphological datasets.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in client‑facing interactions or scientific collaboration.
Desirable:
* Previous experience working within a CRO, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical R&D environment.
* Demonstrate familiarity with fast‑paced, client‑driven project delivery, regulatory expectations and structured laboratory workflows.
* Experience with digital pathology and image analysis.
* Familiarity with basic toxicologic pathology principles.
* Experience and/or exposure to technical innovation, process improvement, or scientific publication.
5. Expected Outcomes
Delivery of precise, robust, high‑quality histology and image‑analysis datasets, generated through precise laboratory execution, consistent methodology, and strong attention to detail, ensuring scientific integrity across all projects.
Development and optimisation of new histological, staining, or digital pathology methods, enhancing the company’s service offerings, the laboratory’s technical capabilities, improving workflows, efficiency, and expanding the analytical options available to clients.
High client satisfaction through reliable communication, technical excellence, and on‑time project delivery, contributing to repeat business, strong professional relationships, and a positive reputation for Axis Bioservices.
6. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Project delivery adherence (>90% on time, within scope).
Development of at least two new or improved tissue or cell‑based assays per major process improvements per year.
Positive feedback from clients/internal teams.
Delivery of 2–4 training sessions/SOP updates annually.
Contribution to at least 1 scientific presentation, proposal, or publication annually.
Successful training and development of junior staff.
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