Senior Scientist in Trace Analysis Mass Spectrometry

AstraZeneca; Macclesfield; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca's Macclesfield Campus seeks a Senior Scientist in Mass Spectrometry to provide advanced analytical support for drug substance characterisation and quantification, driving pharmaceutical development.

You will apply MS to quantify trace impurities and support method development, working with cross-functional teams in PT&D and Chemical Development, while adhering to GMP/GLP and safety guidelines.

Qualifications

• Mass spectrometry experience for drug substance analysis.
• Ability to develop and review MS methods for trace analysis.
• Strong data interpretation and communication across disciplines.
• Knowledge of GMP/GLP is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Deliver analytical support for drug development with MS focus.
• Review methods and data; contribute to method development.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners; ensure compliance with GMP/GLP and SHE.

Skills

Mass spectrometry

Trace analysis

Data interpretation

Cross-cultural communication

Education

Relevant scientific degree

Job description

Competitive Salary And Benefits

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives worldwide? At AstraZeneca, we are more than just a leading pharmaceutical company; we are a place where innovation and collaboration thrive. Join us at our Macclesfield Campus, a hub of scientific excellence nested in Cheshire, where science transforms into medicine. As a Senior Scientist in Mass Spectrometry, you'll be part of a dynamic team providing advanced analytical support, focusing on mass spectrometry for drug substance characterisation and quantification to support pharmaceutical product development. This role is perfect for professionals eager to advance their careers in pharmaceutical development.

Location

Macclesfield, UK

Pharmaceutical Technology & Development

Pharmaceutical Technology and Development (PT&D) are the bridge, which turns brilliant science into actual medicines that help millions of people. We work across the entire value chain, designing and delivering active ingredients, formulations and devices required to support new medicines – from supplies for use in early toxicology studies and clinical trials to developing the technology to ensure drugs can be scaled up for commercial manufacture.

Chemical Development

In Chemical Development we believe that nothing is impossible, and we are determined to push the boundaries of science to deliver medicines to our patients. We combine people’s technical knowledge and understanding with their talent and drive to design, develop and optimise synthetic routes and analytical methods that deliver the active pharmaceutical ingredients of our medicines in a sustainable, commercially viable way. We believe in innovation and continuous improvement, working closely with colleagues in academia and across industry, to ensure that we apply the newest technologies and principles in the development and delivery of our medicines.

The Role

You will be part of a team of scientists providing advanced analytical support to AstraZeneca, Macclesfield, with a focus on the application of mass spectrometry to achieve quantification of trace impurities and some characterisation to develop pharmaceutical products. This role is ideal for mass spectrometry professionals looking to advance their careers in pharmaceutical development.

Accountabilities

In this role, you'll play a pivotal part in delivering support for drug development and market products. You'll contribute to method review, technical data review and method development. You’ll use skills in separation science, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation approaches to enhance project understanding. Working closely with external partners and across the organisation will be key. Supporting science capability will be an opportunity to impact across the organisation and partners, as will communicating data effectively to diverse audiences. Your work will adhere to Safety, Health & Environment (SHE) guidelines and compliance standards like Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).

Essential Skills/Experience

• A relevant scientific degree with significant mass spectrometry experience.
• Ability to develop and review mass spectrometry methodologies to quantify trace analysis components and to assist structure confirmation/elucidation of small molecules.
• Practical experience in the operation and data interpretation for a range of mass spectrometry systems and some knowledge of trace analysis challenges.
• Good communication and influencing skills across disciplines and cultures both internally and externally.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Knowledge of advanced automated sample preparation techniques.
• An appreciation of the overall drug development process from discovery through to launch.
• Proactive in supporting development of colleagues.
• A solid understanding of quality and regulatory requirements (GMP and ICH).

Working Arrangement

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work five days per week from the office, and three days a week minimum. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

Company Culture

At AstraZeneca we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration. Always committed to lifelong learning, growth and development.

Closing Dates

Posted: 02-Sept-2026

Closing Date: 12-Sept-2026

Inclusion Statement

Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.