Scientific jobs in United Kingdom

The AI-driven Drug Discovery (AIDD) programme, a national initiative funded by the National Research Foundation and hosted by A*STAR, is seeking a Strategy & Programme Associate to support its mission to transform drug discovery through AI and data science. This role is ideal for an early-career professional with a strong scientific foundation, sharp analytical thinking, and the ambition to contribute beyond traditional administrative functions.

As part of the AIDD core team, you will work closely with scientific leads and ecosystem partners to coordinate research activities, support strategic projects, and help shape partnerships. You will start by delivering high-quality operational and programme administrative support, with opportunities to grow into roles involving strategic planning, business development, and stakeholder engagement.

We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, translational research environment with intellectual curiosity, drive, and the ability to learn quickly.

Job Responsibilities:

Support strategic planning, resource allocation, and programme tracking to ensure scientific and operational goals are met
Work alongside the management team and scientific and technical leads to monitor milestones, align priorities, and manage research and innovation deliverables
Coordinate and drive internal meetings, reporting, and cross-institution collaborations, ensuring projects stay on track and risks are addressed early
Manage operational tasks such as budgets, documentation, logistics, and scheduling, while maintaining a systems-thinking approach
Assist in ecosystem mapping and partner engagement (e.g. industry, academia, government), including preparing presentations and reports
Support the administration of extramural funding, including managing the application and review processes, coordinating disbursement, and ensuring compliance with governance requirements
Track and support reporting requirements for both internal and external funded projects, working closely with research performers and institutional administrators

Requirements:

PhD in bioinformatics, biomedical engineering, life sciences or relevant scientific field
2–4 years of relevant work experience preferred, particularly in research project/programme coordination and admin/ops, including managing project budgets
Familiarity with tools such as MS Project, Excel, or other project management systems is an advantage
Exposure to or interest in translational research, AI/ML in biology, or the biotech/pharma landscape
Demonstrated project or programme coordination experience in research, consulting, or innovation-focused environments
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills; strong writing ability is a must
Excellent interpersonal skills
Proactive, intellectually curious and adaptable
Experience in admin ops, budgeting and grants management is a plus