Senior Scientist 1 — Synthetic and Mammalian Upstream
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About CPI
CPI helps make great ideas and inventions a reality. We’re a team of intelligent people using advances in science and technology to solve the biggest global challenges in healthcare and sustainability.
Why this role is important for CPI’s work
CPI has an exciting opportunity to join our Biologics team as a Senior Scientist 1 – Synthetic & Mammalian Upstream. You will play a key role in developing and scaling innovative upstream processes for the production of advanced biologics, including recombinant proteins, mRNA, viral vectors, and other cutting‑edge modalities. Working in a collaborative environment, you will contribute to projects that shape the future of biopharmaceutical manufacturing and help deliver life‑changing therapies to patients.
Key responsibilities
* Lead and deliver experimentation for synthetic and mammalian expression systems for biologics production (proteins, mRNA, viral vectors).
* Design, develop, and scale‑up upstream processes using bioreactor systems (single‑use or reusable).
* Apply molecular biology, cell biology, and bioprocessing techniques, including high‑throughput screening and analytical methods.
* Ensure compliance with GMP, Data Integrity, and SHE standards, maintaining rigorous documentation and quality practices.
* Analyse and interpret experimental data, prepare reports, and present findings internally and to clients.
* Provide mentoring and technical guidance to team members.
* Maintain and calibrate equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
The person we are seeking
* Professional mastery of molecular, cellular, and vector biology and upstream processing, gained in academic or industrial environments.
* Significant practical experience using or developing expression systems for protein and nucleic acid‑based products, including mammalian and/or cell‑free systems.
* Hands‑on experience in mammalian cell culture, working with different expression systems (CHO, HEK), adherent and suspension cell lines and experience with batch and perfusion culture.
* Experience with molecular biology techniques such as cloning (vector design, restriction, ligation, transformation), and relevant analytical techniques (qPCR, SDS‑PAGE, ELISA, cell‑based assays).
* Experience leading technical development projects and solving complex technical problems.
* Ability to supervise and train other team members.
* Ability to apply experimental design and statistical concepts to experimental planning and data interpretation.
Qualifications
* Educated to degree level (or higher) in a scientific or engineering discipline with relevant industrial experience.
* Advanced qualifications (Master’s or PhD) and experience in bioprocessing are highly desirable.
What does CPI offer you?
* Up to 36 days holiday, including bank holidays – plus a holiday purchasing scheme.
* Generous pension scheme.
* Life assurance and accident insurance schemes.
* Flexible working.
* Learning and development opportunities.
* Free parking.
Additional Information
CPI is an organisation based in the UK. Commencement of employment is conditional to demonstrating right to work in the UK, sponsorship may be available.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
Industries
Research Services
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