Associate Principal Scientist

Lonza; Slough; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biopharmaceutical company in Slough is seeking an Associate Principal Scientist to lead protein chemistry research. This role involves driving scientific advancement in protein analytics and mentoring staff. Applicants should have a PhD in Life Sciences and significant experience in analytical techniques such as chromatography and mass spectrometry. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to biotherapeutic innovation.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in an analytical lab (industry or academia).
• Strong publication or patent record in protein analysis.
• Hands-on experience with chromatography.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects to drive scientific advancement in protein analytics.
• Coach and develop scientific staff to foster a collaborative team culture.
• Scout and assess new technologies, engaging with the scientific community.

Skills

Strong analytical thinking

Interpersonal skills

Ability to interpret complex data

Education

PhD in Life Sciences

Tools

Liquid chromatography

Capillary electrophoresis

Mass spectrometry

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Associate Principal Scientist – Protein Chemistry - 12 month Fixed Term Contract
Department: Research and Development
Location: Slough, UK
Reports To: Group Leader, Protein Chemistry, R&D Protein and Process Analytics
Travel Requirements: None
Job Reference: R70217

About the Role

Are you a passionate scientist with deep expertise in protein analytics? Join our dynamic R&D team in Slough as an Associate Principal Scientist, where you’ll play a pivotal role in advancing biotherapeutic characterization. This high-level scientific position sits within the Protein Chemistry group and focuses on analytical protein separation and characterization using cutting-edge techniques such as liquid chromatography, capillary electrophoresis, and mass spectrometry. Your work will directly contribute to innovation across Lonza Pharma & Biotech.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research and innovation projects (50%) to drive scientific advancement in protein analytics.
• Coach and develop scientific staff (30%), fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
• Scout and assess new technologies (20%) and engage with the wider scientific community to bring fresh insights and capabilities into Lonza’s network.
• Provide scientific leadership across internal and external collaborations, contributing to project management, mentoring, and implementation of new technologies.

What We’re Looking For

• Education: PhD in Life Sciences, ideally in Biochemistry, Biophysics, or Biomanufacturing.
• Experience: Significant experience in an analytical lab (industry or academia), with a strong publication or patent record in protein analysis.
• Expertise: Hands-on experience with chromatography (IEX, SEC, HIC, HILIC), LC-MS/MS, capillary electrophoresis, and protein glycosylation analysis.
• Skills: Strong analytical thinking, ability to interpret complex data, and excellent interpersonal skills for working in a matrix organization.
• Qualities: Innovative mindset, resilience, empathy, and a passion for mentoring and scientific excellence.

Why Join Us?

At Lonza, we empower our scientists to innovate and lead. You’ll be part of a team that delivers high-value technical solutions and collaborates across disciplines to shape the future of biotherapeutics. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and grow your career in a supportive, forward-thinking environment, we’d love to hear from you.