Biotech Lab Automation Scientist: Robotics & Data

Lonza; Slough; On-site; Confidential; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Dynamic working culture

Inclusive workplace

Competitive compensation programs

Benefits vary by role/location

Lonza benefits page

Job summary

Lonza is seeking a Lab Automation Specialist in Slough to drive the implementation, optimisation, and support of automation across biopharma R&D workflows.

You will work with robotics and instrumentation, integrating ELN and LIMS, and coordinating with IT and bioinformatics teams. The role requires hands-on experience with multiple automation platforms and strong problem-solving skills. Lonza offers a dynamic, inclusive culture with broad benefits.

Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with experience in lab automation within biotech/pharma.
• Proficiency in programming and at least one automation software/hardware: Hamilton Star, Tecan Proficient/Evo, Biomek i series, Agilent Bravo.
• Experience writing or editing automation scripts (VENUS, EVOware, Python/Java APIs).
• Familiarity with assay development and optimisation in an R&D or high-throughput environment.
• Understanding of data flow, integration, and digital lab systems (LIMS, ELN).
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities; capable of leading cross-functional projects.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate automated workflows for assays and screening campaigns on liquid handlers.
• Program and maintain lab automation platforms; troubleshoot and coordinate with vendors for maintenance.
• Collaborate with scientists, IT, and stakeholders to address challenges with automation solutions.
• Support scale-up and tech transfer of automated workflows to QC or non-R&D environments.
• Supervise installation, validation, and qualification of equipment to meet standards.
• Participate in Lonza training programs.

Skills

Lab automation

Programming

Digital lab systems

Cross-functional leadership

Education

M.S. or Ph.D. in Biology/Biochemistry/related

Tools

Hamilton Star

Tecan Proficient/Evo

Biomek i series

Agilent Bravo

VENUS / EVOware / Python/ Java APIs

Job description

Lonza is seeking a Lab Automation Specialist in Slough to drive the implementation, optimisation, and support of automation across biopharma R&D workflows.

You will work with robotics and instrumentation, integrating ELN and LIMS, and coordinating with IT and bioinformatics teams. The role requires hands-on experience with multiple automation platforms and strong problem-solving skills. Lonza offers a dynamic, inclusive culture with broad benefits.