We're supporting a pioneering biotech startup in the search for a Production Scientist / Senior Scientist to join as one of their first scientific hires. This is a unique opportunity to help build a platform focused on developing advanced human biological models to support drug discovery and translational research.
If you enjoy hands-on experimental work, designing and improving complex in vitro systems, and working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where priorities evolve, this could be the perfect role for you.
About the opportunity:
This is a 14-month contract position (with potential to transition into a permanent role) based in a newly established laboratory environment.
Due to the nature of experimental timelines, the role requires flexibility to occasionally work weekends, with time taken back during the week to ensure balance.
You'll work closely with founders and scientific leadership, helping define workflows, protocols, and the long-term direction of the platform.
In this role, you will:
Develop, optimise, and scale complex human stem cell-derived 3D culture models
Design and execute experiments to support platform development and validation
Establish robust lab protocols across cell culture, differentiation, and analysis workflows
Apply techniques such as immunostaining, microscopy, and molecular biology assays
Interpret and present experimental data clearly to internal stakeholders
Build repeatable, scalable processes with strong emphasis on quality and reproducibility
Troubleshoot experimental challenges and continuously improve outputs
Contribute to scientific planning, company strategy, and technical documentation
Support collaboration across a small, ambitious team in a startup environmentSkills & Experience:
PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant biological field (e.g. stem cell biology, neuroscience, biomedical sciences, developmental biology)
Strong hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, preferably including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
Experience with stem cells, organoids, assembloids, or complex 3D culture systems
Practical experience with immunohistochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, and molecular/cell biology techniques
Ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret experiments
Strong understanding of assay development, reproducibility, and experimental quality control
Experience in biotech, pharma, or translational research environments (highly beneficial)
Exposure to commercial assay/platform development or workflow scaling is advantageous
Familiarity with automation, QC processes, or high-throughput workflows is beneficialWhy you will love working here:
Salary between £35,000 and £45,000, depending on experience
Be one of the first hires in a high potential biotech startup
Pension scheme
25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays and official closure days over the Christmas period
Salary description
£35000.00 - £45000.00 per year