R&D Senior Scientist

Danaher Corporation; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Leica Biosystems, a Danaher operating company, is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead well-defined R&D projects that support the development and lifecycle management of cancer diagnostic products. You will apply broad technical knowledge across disciplines and work with cross-functional partners in a regulated development environment.

Based on-site in Newcastle Upon Tyne, you will mentor scientists, interpret data, and guide product development from concept through verification and transfer, with

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant scientific discipline or equivalent experience.
• Experience in immunohistochemistry, histopathology, chemistry or molecular biology.
• Experience working in a regulated environment for in vitro diagnostic or medical device products.

Responsibilities

• Lead defined R&D projects supporting the development and lifecycle management of diagnostic products.
• Plan, execute, and interpret laboratory studies across histopathology, IHC, molecular biology, chemistry and detection methods.
• Provide technical guidance and mentor scientists and other project team members.
• Contribute to product development from concept through verification, validation and transfer, ensuring compliance with regulatory, quality, customer, time and budget requirements.

Skills

Communication skills

Mentoring/leadership

Problem-solving

Education

PhD or equivalent experience

Job description

Bring more to life.

Are you ready to accelerate your potential and make a real difference within life sciences, diagnostics and biotechnology?

At Leica Biosystems, one of Danaher’s 15+ operating companies, our work saves lives—and we’re all united by a shared commitment to innovate for tangible impact.

You’ll thrive in a culture of belonging where you and your unique viewpoint matter. And by harnessing Danaher’s system of continuous improvement, you help turn ideas into impact – innovating at the speed of life.

At Leica Biosystems, we’re not just shaping the future of cancer diagnostics — we’re transforming lives. Our mission of “Advancing Cancer Diagnostics, Improving Lives” is the driving force behind everything we do. As a global leader with the most comprehensive portfolio spanning from biopsy to diagnosis, we empower clinicians with innovative, reliable solutions so they can give patients timely, accurate answers when they need them most. When you join Leica Biosystems, you’re not just taking a job; you’re becoming part of a passionate team that knows every moment matters when it comes to cancer. You’ll help develop diagnostic solutions that turn anxiety into answers, and aid the acceleration of next-generation, life-changing therapies. Surrounded by a diverse and collaborative global community, you’ll be inspired each day to stretch, grow, and make an impact.

Learn about the Danaher Business System which makes everything possible.

As a Senior Scientist at Leica Biosystems, you will lead well‑defined projects or work packages that contribute to the development and lifecycle support of cancer diagnostic products. You will apply broad technical knowledge across your own discipline and related functions, plan and execute laboratory studies, interpret complex data, and recommend evidence‑based solutions. You will work with cross‑functional partners in a regulated product development environment, provide technical guidance to other scientists, and may lead small teams with a clearly defined scope. The role combines hands‑on science, structured problem‑solving, stakeholder communication, and disciplined delivery within agreed time and budget constraints.

This position reports to an R&D Manager and is part of the Research and Development team located in Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK, working fully on‑site. As a team that has recently been awarded Danaher’s Best Plant, you’ll be joining a group recognised for outstanding execution, innovation, and impact.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

• Lead well‑defined R&D projects or work packages supporting the development and lifecycle management of diagnostic products used in cancer diagnosis.
• Plan, execute, and interpret laboratory studies involving histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), molecular biology (eg FISH and CISH), chemistry, and detection methodologies, as applicable to the project.
• Solve complex technical problems using scientific judgement, structured problem‑solving methodology, and appropriate Danaher Business System tools, with coaching where required.
• Provide technical input, communicate complex or sensitive information clearly, build consensus, and guide or mentor scientists and other project team members.
• Contribute to product development from concept and feasibility through development, verification, validation, and transfer, ensuring work is completed in accordance with regulatory, quality, customer, time, and budget requirements.

The essential requirements of the role include:

• A PhD in a relevant scientific discipline, or a degree or equivalent qualification with substantial relevant experience.
• Practical experience in immunohistochemistry, histopathology, chemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline, gained in an academic or commercial environment.
• Experience working in a regulated environment, with working knowledge of regulatory requirements for in vitro diagnostic or medical device products.
• Experience of product development and/or progressing scientific ideas from conception through feasibility and project initiation.

It would be a plus if you also possess:

• Strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal, organisational, prioritisation, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to work effectively through ambiguity and across functions.
• Experience leading small teams or defined technical work, coaching or mentoring colleagues, applying continuous‑improvement tools, and delivering within time and budget constraints.

Leica Biosystems, a Danaher operating company, offers a broad array of comprehensive, competitive benefit programs that add value to our lives. Whether it’s a health care program or paid time off, our programs contribute to life beyond the job. Check out our benefits at Danaher Benefits Info.

#LI Onsite

For more information, visit www.danaher.com.