Principal Scientist - LCMS/MS

R&D Partners; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

R&D Partners is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist to lead complex bioanalytical studies within a CRO, overseeing method development through to reporting and client interactions.

You will provide scientific leadership in small molecule LC-MS/MS bioanalysis, mentor junior scientists, and ensure regulatory compliance across GLP/GMP/GCP environments.

Qualifications

• Significant hands-on experience with triple quadrupole LC-MS/MS in regulated GLP, GMP, and/or GCP environments.
• Proven expertise in small molecule bioanalysis, including method development, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of extraction methods, chromatography, and bioanalytical validation requirements.
• Experience reviewing scientific documentation to ensure quality and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to lead technical activities, manage competing priorities, and mentor junior scientists.

Responsibilities

• Lead small molecule LC-MS/MS method development, optimization, and validation to ensure robust bioanalytical assays.
• Act as the technical SME for complex analytical challenges, including chromatographic troubleshooting and extraction techniques (SPE, LLE, protein precipitation).
• Provide scientific oversight of regulated studies, ensuring data integrity, regulatory compliance, and timely project delivery.
• Review and approve protocols, validation reports, SOPs, and other technical documentation.
• Mentor laboratory scientists and represent the function during client interactions, audits, and technical discussions.

Skills

LC-MS/MS (triple quadrupole)

Small molecule bioanalysis

Analytical method development

Regulatory compliance (GLP/GMP/GCP)

Documentation review and control

Education

MSc or PhD in Analytical Chemistry / Pharmaceutical Sciences

Job description

Ready to lead complex bioanalytical studies and shape the scientific direction of innovative drug development programmes?

R&D Partners is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist to join a well-established contract research organization specializing in clinical development and bioanalytical services. This hands-on scientific role offers significant ownership across regulated bioanalytical studies, from method development through to study delivery and reporting. The successful candidate will provide technical leadership within small molecule LC-MS/MS bioanalysis, supporting both scientific excellence and the development of junior team members.

Candidates must have full right to work in the UK to be eligible to apply for this role. Unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Responsibilities:

• Lead small molecule LC-MS/MS method development, optimization, and validation to ensure robust and compliant bioanalytical assays.
• Act as the technical SME for complex analytical challenges, including chromatographic troubleshooting and extraction techniques (SPE, LLE, protein precipitation).
• Provide scientific oversight of regulated studies, ensuring data integrity, regulatory compliance, and timely project delivery.
• Review and approve protocols, validation reports, SOPs, and other technical documentation.
• Mentor laboratory scientists and represent the function during client interactions, audits, and technical discussions.

Key Skills and Requirements:

• Significant hands-on experience with triple quadrupole LC-MS/MS in a regulated GLP, GMP, and/or GCP environment.
• Proven expertise in small molecule bioanalysis, including method development, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of extraction methodologies, chromatography, and current bioanalytical validation requirements.
• Experience reviewing scientific documentation and ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Ability to lead technical activities, manage competing priorities, and support the development of junior scientists.

Desirable Qualifications:

• MSc or PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Previous experience within a CRO, bioanalytical services, or clinical research environment.
• Exposure to regulatory inspections, client audits, and quality management systems.
• Experience mentoring, coaching, or providing technical leadership to scientific teams.
• Lean Six Sigma or project management training/certification.