Associate Scientist - Virus Production

Merck Group; Stirling; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck Group in Stirling, United Kingdom, is offering an Associate Scientist 2 position focused on GMP virus production execution. You will work alongside experienced scientists, providing scientific support and contributing to continuous improvement across operations.

The role emphasizes compliance with GxP, APC cytokine management in a fast-paced setting, and opportunities to mentor lab personnel while developing regulatory knowledge in cGMP/GLP environments.

Qualifications

• BSc in Biological Science or MSc in Biological Science required.
• Aseptic technique and cell culture experience preferred.
• Familiarity with GMP/GLP environments desirable.
• Proficient with Labware LIMS and related software.

Responsibilities

• Assist in scheduling GMP virus productions to meet global demand.
• Support Responsible Scientist to ensure compliance with GxP standards.
• Provide technical support and guidance to lab staff.
• Monitor virus stock levels and assist in the release processes.
• Maintain and revise SOPs, risk assessments, and lab documentation.
• Stay updated with SOPs and regulations (cGMP and GLP).
• Review production data for accuracy and compliance.
• Participate in training and coaching of laboratory personnel.

Skills

Aseptic technique

Cell culture experience

Communication skills

Time management

Coaching/training abilities

Education

BSc in Biological Sciences

MSc in Biological Sciences

Tools

Labware LIMS

Job description

Work Your Magic with us! Ready to explore, break barriers, and discover more? Our colleagues across the globe love innovating with science and technology to enrich people's lives with our solutions in Healthcare, Life Science, and Electronics.

Your Role

We have an exciting Associate Scientist 2 position available at our Stirling site. In this role, you will support GMP virus production execution while gaining valuable experience. You'll work alongside experienced scientists, providing scientific support and contributing to continuous improvement efforts across operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in scheduling GMP virus productions to meet global demand.
• Support the Responsible Scientist in ensuring compliance with GxP standards.
• Provide technical support and guidance to lab staff.
• Monitor virus stock levels and assist in the release processes.
• Help investigate deviations and nonconformances with scientific detail.
• Maintain and revise SOPs, risk assessments, and lab documentation.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and departmental projects.
• Support audits and assist in the resolution of findings.
• Participate in training and coaching of laboratory personnel.
• Ensure availability of consumables and reagents prior to virus initiation.
• Review production data for accuracy and compliance.
• Stay updated with SOPs and regulations (cGMP and GLP).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Who You Are

• BSc Degree in a Biological Science with 1+ years biological industry lab experience OR a MSc degree in a Biological Science.
• Aseptic technique and cell culture experience are desirable.
• Basic technical knowledge in virus production/virology or related areas is desirable.
• Familiarity with GMP/GLP environments is desirable.
• Strong communication and time management skills.
• Proficient in relevant software tools, including Labware LIMS.
• Effective coaching and training abilities.

What we offer

We are curious minds that come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe that this variety drives excellence and innovation, strengthening our ability to lead in science and technology. We are committed to creating access and opportunities for all to develop and grow at your own pace.