Principal Scientist Cell-based Assays

NHS; Potters Bar; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A regulatory agency in Potters Bar, UK is looking for a Principal Scientist to lead a team dedicated to cell-based assays for biological medicines. The role requires extensive experience with ISO17025 and various assay techniques, including LIMS usage. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential, as is a relevant PhD or equivalent experience. This full-time permanent position focuses on improving patient outcomes through innovative assay development and stakeholder engagement. Applications must be submitted via the MHRA website.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience working within an ISO17025 quality management system.
• Experience with analyzing large complex data sets.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to create a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Ensure analytical assays are performed in compliance with ISO17025.
• Manage delivery of improvements in patient outcomes through process improvement.
• Advise and train staff in assay administration and control testing.

Skills

ISO17025 quality management experience

Fluorometric assays

Microscopy

FACS

Plaque-forming assays

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Education

PhD in relevant field or equivalent experience

Tools

Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Job description

Principal Scientist Cell-based Assays

Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead a team of analytical scientists focused on cell‑based assays for the characterisation of biological medicines.

Key responsibilities

• Ensure analytical assays are performed in compliance with ISO17025, including assay development, validation and troubleshooting.
• Manage day‑to‑day implementation and delivery of improvements in patient outcomes through resource organisation, process improvement and changes in working practice, including training and innovative assay development.
• Advise, supervise and train staff in specific assays and the administration of control testing.
• Engage with stakeholders across the agency, national control laboratories and manufacturers to ensure quality of service and patient access to medicines.

Qualifications and skills

• Extensive experience working within a ISO17025 quality management system.
• Extensive experience with fluorometric, microscopy, foci‑forming assays, fluorescence‑activated cell sorting (FACS), plaque‑forming and plaque‑reduction neutralisation assays.
• Experience using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and analysing large complex data sets.
• Strong leadership skills, ability to create a collaborative environment and respond effectively to change.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to engage a wide variety of stakeholders.
• PhD in a relevant field or equivalent extensive experience with analysis of biological medicines, including vaccines.

Employment details

Location: South Mimms, Hertfordshire, UK
Type: Full‑time permanent
Closing date: 14 December 2025

How to apply

Please apply through the MHRA website – NHS Jobs applications will not be accepted.

Contact

For assistance applying, contact [e-mail]