Lead Scientist – Potency, ELISA & Cell-Based Analytics

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

Job summary

Lonza in Slough is seeking a Lead Scientist to drive potency ELISA and cell‑based analytics development, validation, and the adoption of new technologies. This site-based role requires bench‑level leadership, collaboration across teams and sites, and a strong data-driven approach to medicine manufacturing.

You will mentor junior scientists, lead complex projects, and ensure robust data interpretation and practical process improvements while upholding quality and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Degree or Master's in Life Sciences or related field.
• Strong laboratory experience in analytical or bioanalytical development.
• Expertise in potency ELISA and cell-based assays; Biacore/SPR experience welcomed.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects and influence multiple teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver multiple complex analytical projects with high first-time-right outcomes.
• Lead method development, establishment and validation activities.
• Implement new technology and customer-specific methods.
• Act as technical expert in potency ELISA and cell-based methods and/or SPR/Biacore.
• Design and execute experimental strategies and translate customer needs into solutions.
• Interpret data to generate insights and guide decisions.
• Present data, troubleshoot issues, and guide project direction.
• Mentor and coach junior scientists and build capability across the team.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement.
• Lead investigations and manage risk to ensure timely resolution.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences

Tools

Biacore/SPR

Job description

Lead Scientist – Potency, ELISA & Cell-Based Analytics

United Kingdom, Slough

Job Title: Lead Scientist – Potency ELISA & Cell-Based Analytics

Location: Slough

The role:

We’re looking for a scientifically curious and technically expert Lead Scientist to join our Analytical Development team. This is a pivotal role for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, leading from the bench, and working to deliver high-quality, data-driven solutions.

If you bring strong expertise in potency ELISA, cell-based assays, and/or SPR/Biacore, this is your opportunity to make a real impact in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

This is a fully site‑based role. Working together in person supports close, real‑time collaboration and the technical precision needed to manufacture medicines to the highest quality and safety standards.

What you will get:

An agile career and dynamic working culture

An inclusive and ethical workplace

Compensation programs that recognize high performance

A variety of benefits dependant on role and location

Lead and deliver multiple complex analytical projects, ensuring high-quality outcomes right first time – this will include method development, establishment and (pre-) validation activities

Lead the implementation of new technology and customer-specific methods

Act as a technical expert in potency ELISA and cell-based methods and/or SPR/Biacore

Design, plan and execute complex experimental strategies, translating customer needs into practical solutions

Analyse and interpret data to generate robust scientific insights and process understanding

Present data, troubleshoot issues, and shape project direction

Mentor and coach junior scientists, building capability across the team

Drive innovation and continuous improvement

Lead investigations, identify risks early, and ensure timely, effective resolution

What we are looking for:

Degree or Master's qualification in Life Sciences or a related scientific discipline.

Strong laboratory experience in analytical or bioanalytical development

Proven expertise in potency ELISA and cell-based assays, including method development and troubleshooting and/or strong experience with Biacore/SPR techniques and data interpretation

Proven ability to lead complex projects and influence outcomes across multiple teams and sites

Confident communicator, able to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights

Passion for mentoring, collaboration, and driving scientific excellence

About Lonza

At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of.

Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.