Scientist - Assay Technology

Working within our fully equipped research laboratories in Cambridge, our established group of scientists are world leaders in fragment and structure-based drug discovery.

Our scientists develop and apply fragment and structure-based methods to solve problems in drug discovery and have generated cell active lead compounds and development candidates against targets in oncology, neurodegeneration, anti-infectives and inflammation.

Within this role you will take full ownership of designing, planning, and conducting assigned assay technology experiments. You will be responsible for interpreting experimental data and determining subsequent research steps. A strong commitment to laboratory safety and proactive involvement in maintaining safety standards is essential.

This role reports to the Head of Assay Technology and is based on-site, with work conducted in both office and laboratory settings. This position is being offered on a 2-year fixed term basis.

• Design, plan, and execute assay experiments independently
• Independently manage assigned routine screening assays to support medicinal chemistry and project outcomes through timely and effective communication and delivery of results
• Interpret assay and screening data and make informed decisions on the direction of future studies
• Communicate findings effectively through presentations and reports for internal and external audiences
• Openly discuss assay data with colleagues as part of a team effort to enable fastest outcomes
• Contribute to or co-author scientific publications, patents, or internal reports
• Use electronic systems to accurately record and manage experimental data
• Identify and implement improvements in scientific methods and laboratory practices
• Actively ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and best practices

• Expertise in assay screening assays and a strong theoretical scientific foundation
• Accuracy in pipetting and safe use of laboratory equipment
• Experienced in experimental design, data generation, analysis, and interpretation
• Demonstrable expertise in generating, collating, evaluating and drawing conclusions from experimental data
• Understands the basic principles of TRFRET and FP assays
• Understands screening cascades and screening processes
• Able to produce accurate reports and scientific explanations of experimental data
• Knowledge of scientific literature directly related to their own assigned work
• Familiarity with related scientific disciplines
• In-depth knowledge of background scientific literature relevant to biochemical assay development and compound screening
• Knowledge of other compound screening techniques used by Vernalis and the wider scientific community
• Proficient in the use of computer-based tools for scientific research

• BSc / MSc in assay technology related discipline
• PhD or other post graduate qualification in relevant scientific field
• Evidence of ongoing professional development or contributions to scientific knowledge

The above duties and responsibilities are not an exhaustive list, and you may be required to undertake any other reasonable duties compatible with your experience and competencies. This description may be varied from time to time to reflect changing business requirements.

At Vernalis you will be part of 'One Team' working in a friendly and collaborative office.

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits including generous pension contributions, private healthcare cover, 26 days annual leave for a full-time position plus bank holidays, holiday purchase scheme, flexitime, discretionary bonus, employee assistance programme and enhanced family leave policies.

Normal working hours for this full-time position is 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Alternative working patterns will be considered for the right candidate.

If you feel passionate about joining a team where scientific excellence and enthusiasm combine in a friendly and flexible environment to impact drug discovery projects, then please get in touch!

Please include a covering letter which outlines your suitability and motivation for this position.

Vernalis Research is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community - a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.