Research Scientist

Simbec-Orion; Merthyr Tydfil; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Simbec-Orion is seeking a Research Scientist for our Laboratory Services Department to support bioanalytical and safety studies using ELISA and LC-MS/MS in a regulated lab. You will handle sample receipt, preparation, extraction, analysis and data reporting, while maintaining compliance and high quality standards.

Work with Senior/Principal Scientists to deliver studies, ensure timely results, maintain equipment, and support client documentation in a fast-paced, quality-focused environment.

Qualifications

• BSc in a relevant scientific discipline or equivalent laboratory experience.
• Experience working within a laboratory environment and supporting bioanalytical studies.
• Experience following protocols and SOPs accurately.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
• Experience using pipettes, centrifuges, balances and general laboratory apparatus.
• Proficient in Excel for documenting, analysing and reporting data.
• Ability to document laboratory activities in a contemporaneous manner.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality work.
• Good verbal and written communication within a team.

Responsibilities

• Process samples for routine assay procedures in line with Protocols and SOPs.
• Assist Senior/Principal Scientist in sample analysis and data recording.
• Assist with method verification/validation to deliver validated assays.
• Carry out general lab duties ensuring efficient operation and readiness.
• Perform or assist with routine maintenance/calibration of instrumentation.
• Prepare documentation (protocols, validation reports, SOPs) for client delivery.
• Ensure work adheres to GCP, EMA and FDA guidelines.
• Document procedures clearly and apply QC per ALCOA+ principles.
• Communicate status with Scientist and Laboratory Manager.
• Maintain personal training records.

Skills

BSc in scientific discipline

Bioanalytical experience

SOP and protocol discipline

Data recording and reporting

GCP/GCLP compliance

Microsoft Excel proficiency

Education

BSc in a relevant scientific discipline

Degree in Analytical Science or related (Desirable)

Job description

Our Mission

Our passion for improving patients’ lives motivates us to apply our skills, experience and knowledge to advance medicine.

We achieve this through flexible, innovative, high-quality solutions for our clients, delivered with integrity.

The Role

We are seeking a Research Scientist to join our Laboratory Services Department, supporting bioanalytical and/or safety studies using ELISA and LC-MS/MS methodologies within a regulated laboratory environment. In this role, you will carry out laboratory activities in accordance with Protocols, Standard Operating Procedures, Work Instructions, regulatory requirements, and the principles of GCP/GCLP relating to laboratories and Clinical Trials. Responsibilities will include sample receipt, preparation, extraction, and analysis, alongside associated data recording, processing, and reporting activities. You will also support routine laboratory operations, including the management of consumables, reagents, analytical equipment, and general laboratory readiness.

The role requires a strong focus on accuracy, data integrity, and compliance, ensuring all activities are performed to company standards for quality, timeliness, and cost. You will work closely with Senior Scientists, Principal Scientists, and wider laboratory teams to support the successful delivery of studies, while contributing to the maintenance of high scientific and operational standards across ELISA and LC-MS/MS workflows.

Key Accountabilities

• Process samples (sample preparation) generated in clinical studies for routine assay procedures, including the preparation of associated chemicals, reagents, and solutions, all in line with Protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Working Instructions (WI).
• Assist the Senior Scientist and/or Principal Scientist in activities related to sample analysis, recording all data in line with company expectations.
• Assist the Senior Scientist and/or Principal Scientist in activities related to method verification/validation in order to deliver fully validated assays with the support of the Senior Research Scientist and Principal Scientist.
• Carry out various general laboratory duties to ensure the efficient operation of the laboratory, such as sample management activities, solvent logs, database maintenance, and waste management.
• Perform or assist with the routine maintenance/calibration of instrumentation or equipment.
• Assist with or prepare the production of relevant documentation (protocols, procedures, validation/study reports, SOPs, CAPAs, file notes), helping to ensure documents are delivered to the client and archived within expected timeframes.
• Ensure that work performed adheres to good practice regulations and guidelines associated with a laboratory environment. (i.e., GCP, EMA and FDA).
• Document procedures undertaken in a clear, accurate and contemporaneous manner and apply Quality Control (QC) procedures to ensure their accuracy in accordance with the principles of ALCOA+.
• Communicate the status of assigned work with the assigned Principal Scientist, Laboratory Project Manager, and other team members.
• Maintain personal training records to demonstrate competency.
  

Essential Skills Required

• BSc in a relevant scientific discipline or equivalent laboratory experience
• Experience working within a laboratory environment, preferably supporting bioanalytical and/or safety studies
• Experience following protocols, Standard Operating Procedures, and written instructions accurately
• Good organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload, manage multiple activities, and work to tight deadlines
• Experience using standard laboratory equipment such as pipettes, centrifuges, balances, and other general laboratory apparatus
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, for documenting, analysing, and reporting data
• Ability to accurately document laboratory activities, processes, and data in a contemporaneous manner
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work
• Good verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively within a team environment

Desirable

• Degree in Analytical Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, or related discipline
• Experience working within a regulated environment (e.g. MHRA GCP for laboratories, GLP, GMP)
• Experience supporting ELISA and/or LC-MS/MS analytical techniques and associated laboratory processes
• Familiarity with the setup, operation, and routine maintenance of HPLC/LC-MS/MS and/or ELISA systems and/or Safety Study analytical equipment
• Proven ability to manage multiple sample analyses while maintaining accuracy and quality standards
• Experience using LIMS or other laboratory data management systems
• Ability to document laboratory information and analytical activities to GxP standards, including preparation of analytical reports
• Experience performing quality control activities and supporting laboratory compliance processes
• Exposure to sample preparation, extraction techniques, and routine bioanalytical workflows

About Us

Simbec-Orion is a responsive and agile full-service CRO, delivering studies from first in man through to Phase III. Our experts leverage wide therapeutic experience and specialist expertise to execute a comprehensive portfolio of trials. We are perfectly structured to provide full-service clinical development solutions for small and mid-size drug developers, headed up by a centralised leadership team.

With a focus on tailormade and scalable solutions, we adapt our delivery style, communications and operations to suit the demands of the project, helping clients achieve their clinical and commercial objectives. Because our goal is the same as theirs; to improve patients’ lives.