Senior Laboratory Automation Scientist: Data-Driven Chemistry

AstraZeneca; Macclesfield; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca in the United Kingdom seeks a Senior Scientist to join the Automation & Data Science unit as a Laboratory Automation Scientist. You will develop, deploy and support new automation platforms while maintaining a growing fleet of automated equipment.

You will own a range of instrumentation, troubleshoot and optimise workflows, and pilot approaches with teams, before handing over to chemistry and analytical groups. Flexibility and collaboration are valued.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry, chemical robotics or mechanical engineering or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in programming and scripting for automation platforms and lab informatics.
• Experience with CAD and prototyping new tools and equipment.
• Operational experience with laboratory automation systems, including design, development, troubleshooting and optimization of robotic platforms.
• Proven record of innovation through papers, patents or external presentations.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and integrate automated platforms for synthetic and analytical chemistry, ensuring data capture and modelling efficiency.
• Translate workflows into practical automation solutions across analytical areas and sample prep.
• Program and operate laboratory robotics; troubleshoot issues and optimize system performance.
• Lead or support technology evaluation, upgrades, and new automation initiatives to advance lab digital maturity.
• Train scientists on use, maintenance, and best practices for automation systems.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, software validation, change management, and IT security.

Skills

Programming

Robotics

Lab automation

Data analysis

Communication

Education

PhD or equivalent

Tools

CAD

Prototyping

Job description

AstraZeneca in the United Kingdom seeks a Senior Scientist to join the Automation & Data Science unit as a Laboratory Automation Scientist. You will develop, deploy and support new automation platforms while maintaining a growing fleet of automated equipment.

You will own a range of instrumentation, troubleshoot and optimise workflows, and pilot approaches with teams, before handing over to chemistry and analytical groups. Flexibility and collaboration are valued.