Senior Mass Spectrometry Scientist – Trace Impurities

AstraZeneca plc; Macclesfield; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca plc in Macclesfield seeks a Senior Scientist in Trace Analysis Mass Spectrometry to quantify trace impurities and generate high-quality data for product understanding and regulatory submissions.

You will develop MS methods, optimise separation science and sample preparation, investigate unexpected results, and collaborate across development and external laboratories to ensure robust data and GMP-compliant practices.

Qualifications

• Significant practical experience in mass spectrometry and pharmaceutical analysis.
• Ability to develop, troubleshoot and apply MS methods for trace-level impurities.
• Experience interpreting complex analytical data and communicating across disciplines, sites, cultures and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Develop, review and apply MS methods to quantify trace impurities in complex matrices.
• Design and optimise sample preparation and chromatography.
• Investigate unexpected results and unknown impurities; perform characterisation and structure confirmation.
• Translate analytical outputs into clear, defensible conclusions that drive impurity control strategies.
• Collaborate with project teams and external laboratories to ensure timely delivery and data integrity.
• Operate to GMP/GLP and data-integrity standards; support inspection-ready documentation.
• Mentor colleagues and advance scientific capability, including automation and digital tools.

Skills

Mass spectrometry

Separation science

Data interpretation

Cross-disciplinary communication

Education

Scientific degree

Tools

Mass spectrometry platforms

Chromatography

Data processing tools

Job description

AstraZeneca plc in Macclesfield seeks a Senior Scientist in Trace Analysis Mass Spectrometry to quantify trace impurities and generate high-quality data for product understanding and regulatory submissions.

You will develop MS methods, optimise separation science and sample preparation, investigate unexpected results, and collaborate across development and external laboratories to ensure robust data and GMP-compliant practices.