Principal Database Programmer

TFS HealthScience; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A global mid-size Contract Research Organization is seeking a Principal Database Programmer in Greater London, responsible for leading database programming activities in clinical studies. The ideal candidate has over 8 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, strong leadership skills, and familiarity with CDMS systems. This role offers opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment, with a hybrid or remote work option.

Benefits

Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Collaborative team environment

Work-life balance

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of database programming experience in the pharmaceutical or CRO industry.
• At least 5 years in a senior-level role.
• Familiarity with GxP environment programming standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead database programming activities to support clinical studies.
• Mentor junior programmers and provide technical leadership.
• Contribute to process and standards development for data management.

Skills

Database programming

Leadership

Communication

CDMS systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in Life Science or Computer Science

Job description

TFS HealthScience is a leading global mid-size Contract Research Organization (CRO) that partners with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies throughout their entire clinical development journey. Our expertise includes full-service capabilities, resourcing, and Functional Service (FSP) solutions.

We are currently looking for a Principal Database Programmer. This is a key role responsible for leading and executing database programming activities to support clinical studies, ensuring quality, compliance, and operational excellence.

About the role

As a Principal Database Programmer, you will work operationally on preparing, conducting, and completing clinical data management tasks on assigned study teams in accordance with company policies, SOPs, and regulatory requirements. You will provide technical leadership, mentor junior programmers, and contribute to the development of processes and standards that enhance data management at TFS.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide training and mentoring to (Senior) Database Programmers on CDMS systems and processes
• Plan client deliverables and manage project budgets
• Act as programming lead for assigned studies or programs
• Set up study databases and ePRO / IRT (if applicable) based on provided specifications
• Write or review the Database Validation Plan and perform database validation / UAT in collaboration with CDM
• Review Data Validation Plans for feasibility and program edit checks in CDM systems and / or SAS
• Support CDM with data import / export and creation of data transfer specifications, liaising with vendors as needed
• Validate data transfer programming and manage user access rights
• Provide user support for EDC studies and execute database locks with CDM
• Escalate project issues or SOP deviations as required
• Contribute to system validation, including test script creation and UAT execution
• Participate in process development, SOP writing / review, and related training
• Provide input to proposals that include data management components and attend bid defense meetings as needed

Depending on your level of qualification, you may also :

• Perform SAS programming related to data management outputs (e.g. data listings, SAE reconciliation, ad-hoc reports)
• Develop and validate global SAS macros for data management processes
• Program / validate SDTM datasets, including define.XML and SDTM reviewer’s guides
• Provide training and mentoring related to SAS programming

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Life Science, Computer Science, or a related field
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant database programming experience in the pharmaceutical or CRO industry, including at least 5 years at a senior level
• Familiarity with CDMS systems and industry standards applicable for programming in a GxP environment (e.g. 21 CFR Part 11, GAMP)
• Proven leadership skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong ability to work effectively with sponsors and internal teams

What We Offer

We provide opportunities for personal and professional growth in a rewarding environment. You’ll be joining a team that values collaboration, innovation, and making a difference in patients’ lives.

Locations

Multiple locations in Europe

• Hybrid or Remote

For candidates based in Spain - TFS is committed to equal opportunities. All our vacancies are open to people with disabilities, in accordance with the General Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Royal Legislative Decree 1 / 2013).

For candidates based in Italy - we welcome applications from candidates belonging to protected categories under art. 1 L. 68 / 99.