Principal Scientist – Automation for Cell Culture
We are looking for a highly motivated individual experienced in automating biology, automated liquid handling, high-throughput screening, and Quality Assurance (QA) processes and protocols to join GSK Oncology TA's Oncology Translational Research team. This team works collaboratively with members of the Oncology TA group to enhance clinical translatability and support preclinical development programs within GSK Oncology TA.
The chosen candidate will be part of a group using patient-derived organoids to develop and implement innovative cellular, genomic, and molecular techniques, applying multimodal analytics and machine learning models. The goal is to advance cancer patient risk stratification and predict responses to future targeted and immunotherapy treatments.
Key responsibilities
* Provide technical expertise to design, develop, optimise and deploy lab‑in‑a‑loop systems and orchestrated automation platforms, ensuring throughput and performance increase.
* Oversee network infrastructure for lab automation platforms, handling design, deployment, support, installation, configuration, qualification, and operational handover.
* Act as the main technical contact between research scientists, automation engineers, and GSK Tech to gather requirements, set priorities, deliver solutions and trainings, and promote ongoing improvements.
* Support a range of workflows including, but not limited to, organoid cell culture, compound treatment, preparation of samples for endpoint analysis (e.g. Flow cytometry, imaging).
* Develop and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, runbooks, and training materials for automation platforms, while collaborating with Cyber Security and OT teams to assess and remediate security risks.
Basic Qualifications & Skills
* Experience with liquid handling methods and integrated automation systems in a research or laboratory environment (such as Bravo and Hamilton), scheduling software, data exchange protocols and programming languages such as Python, R, C#, or Java.
* Experience working with complex or non‑standard biological materials (e.g. viscous or ECM‑based systems) in sterile workflows and aseptic techniques in automated or semi‑automated environments.
* Bachelor's Degree in Life Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Bioinformatics, and significant practical experience in IT/OT roles supporting automation, infrastructure or applications in life sciences or research environments.
* Demonstrated experience with network, TCP/IP protocols, cyber security principles, secure configuration and system administration in lab automation settings, including practical experience configuring network interfaces for devices and instrument control systems.
* Experience with scripting.
* Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication abilities, enabling swift resolution of technical challenges and clear engagement with diverse stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
* Experience in collaboration with biopharma.
* Experience in cell culture and/or 3D systems or spheroids.
* Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
GSK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This ensures that all qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), military service or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law.
Closing Date for Applications – 24th April 2026
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