Scientist I – Analytical (Biologics)
Darlington (National Biologics Manufacturing Centre) | On-site | £26,939 – £34,939
About the Role:
We are seeking an Analytical Scientist to join our growing Analytical team in Darlington, supporting a wide range of biologics process development programmes.
This role sits at the heart of how the organisation delivers high-quality data to support bioprocessing, with work spanning molecule characterisation, product quality testing, and formulation/stability studies.
You will work across a diverse project portfolio — from early-stage development through to more advanced programmes — contributing to the characterisation and understanding of complex biologic products. The role will involve working on a variety of modalities including monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, mRNA, and viral vectors.
We are open to candidates from a range of analytical backgrounds, including those looking to transition from small molecules into biologics.
What You’ll Be Responsible For:
Analytical Testing & Characterisation:
- Perform analytical studies to support process development and product characterisation
- Investigate:
- Product quality and structural characteristics
- Residuals and impurities (e.g. host cell proteins, DNA, endotoxins)
- Stability and degradation pathways
Techniques & Methods:
- Apply a wide range of analytical techniques, which may include:
- Chromatography (HPLC/UPLC)
- Mass spectrometry
- ELISA and qPCR/ddPCR
- Capillary electrophoresis and SDS-PAGE
- Contribute to biophysical analysis including:
- Circular dichroism
- Dynamic light scattering
- Differential scanning calorimetry
- Other structure/function techniques
Method Development & Data Analysis:
- Support development and optimisation of analytical methods
- Analyse and interpret data, preparing clear reports and summaries
- Contribute to data trending, documentation, and ensuring data integrity
Project & Team Collaboration:
- Work closely with upstream and downstream process development teams
- Contribute to delivery of multiple analytical work packages across projects
- Support continuous improvement of analytical workflows and lab practices
About You:
You are an analytical scientist or early-career researcher with experience in laboratory-based analytical techniques and an interest in biologics.
You’ll bring:
- A degree (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline (e.g. chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology)
- Hands-on experience with analytical techniques
- Strong attention to detail and ability to generate high-quality data
- Good communication skills and ability to work in a team environment
Desirable (but not essential):
- Experience working with biologics or bioprocessing systems
- Exposure to biophysical characterisation techniques (e.g. CD, DLS, DSC)
- Experience with mass spectrometry or spectroscopy methods (e.g. IR, Raman)
- Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g. qPCR, ELISA)
- Background in:
- Analytical chemistry (including those looking to move into biologics)
- Biochemistry or molecular biology
This role is ideal for someone who:
- Enjoys working across a variety of analytical methods
- Is curious and keen to broaden their technical skillset
- Wants exposure to cutting-edge biologics development
Why Join?
- Work on diverse and impactful biologics programmes
- Gain exposure to a wide range of analytical and biophysical techniques
- Excellent environment for technical development and career progression
- Collaborative, multidisciplinary scientific teams
- Competitive salary (£26.9k–£34.9k)
Location & Working Pattern
- Based on-site in Darlington (NBMC, Nigel Perry Building)
- Laboratory-based role with hands-on experimental work
The Opportunity
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a highly capable analytical team and build experience across multiple technologies, modalities, and projects — making it ideal for someone looking to develop a strong, well-rounded analytical career in biologics.
Unfortunately this role is permanent and doesn't offer sponsorship due to the level so we will not be accepting any applications for candidates who require this long term.
