Media Development Scientist

SLS Services Limited; Bristol; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing biotech start-up in Bristol is seeking a motivated Media Development Scientist to join their media optimisation team. This role emphasizes hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture and data analysis. You'll design experiments, optimize media formulations using automation, and collaborate across teams to drive innovation in a dynamic start-up environment. The ideal candidate is adaptable and proactive, eager to influence processes and contribute to sustainable manufacturing.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years’ experience in mammalian cell culture (adherent & suspension).
• Experience with quality systems or electronic lab notebooks (desirable).
• Strong attention to detail and focus on quality.

Responsibilities

• Design and run experimental programmes using DOE methodologies.
• Use automation to optimise media formulations.
• Collaborate across scientific and commercial teams.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture experience

Automation experience

Data analysis skills

Project management understanding

Organizational skills

Collaborative mindset

Tools

Liquid handling systems

Statistical tools

Job description

I am working with a fast-growing, Bristol-based biotech start-up with global ambitions. Their mission is to accelerate the success of sustainable and ethical cell-based products across food, materials, and cosmetics. By blending biology, digitalisation, and biomanufacturing, they provide world-class R&D and manufacturing services that help biotech companies reach commercial scale faster, more efficiently, and at lower cost.

As part of their expanding team, you’ll be joining a collaborative, ambitious company that values curiosity, innovation, and impact.

The Role

I’m currently looking for a Media Development Scientist to join my clients growing media optimisation team. This is a pivotal role, where you’ll contribute directly to both internal and client projects, helping turn scientific innovation into scalable, cost-effective, and sustainable manufacturing processes.

• Designing and running experimental programmes using DOE methodologies.
• Using automation and high-throughput systems to optimise media formulations.
• Analysing complex datasets to drive decision-making and innovation.
• Collaborating across scientific and commercial teams to deliver results that matter.
• Taking responsibility for data quality, integrity, and project outcomes.
• Supporting both internal R&D and client projects with a strong commercial mindset.

This is not a “follow the protocol” role — it’s about shaping them. You’ll have the opportunity to influence processes, test new approaches, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in cell culture media development.

Candidate Profile

I am looking for someone who is motivated, adaptable, and excited to grow in a dynamic start-up environment. Ideally, you’ll bring:

• 1–3 years’ experience in mammalian cell culture (adherent & suspension).
• Hands-on experience with automation, liquid handling systems, and statistical tools.
• A track record of data analysis and applying DOE approaches.
• Experience working in an industrial/commercial setting, with an understanding of project management.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a focus on quality.
• A proactive, collaborative mindset — someone who sees challenges as opportunities.
• Experience with quality systems or electronic lab notebooks (desirable, not essential).