Lab Automation Scientist (Biopharma)

TL;DR

Lab Automation Scientist (Biopharma): Designing, developing, and validating automated laboratory workflows for cell culture process development, analytics, assays, and screening campaigns with an accent on liquid handling, laboratory robotics, and digital lab integration. Focus on programming automation platforms, integrating ELN and LIMS systems, troubleshooting complex equipment, and scaling validated workflows into operational and quality-control environments.

Location: Slough, United Kingdom

Company

A global life sciences and biopharmaceutical manufacturing organization developing technologies and solutions that help turn breakthrough ideas into viable therapies.

What you will do

• Design, develop, and validate automated workflows for assays, cell culture process development, analytics, and high-throughput screening.
• Program and maintain laboratory automation platforms and liquid-handling systems, troubleshoot failures, and coordinate vendor maintenance.
• Collaborate with laboratory scientists, bioinformaticians, IT teams, and other stakeholders to identify needs and implement automation solutions.
• Support the scale-up and technology transfer of automated workflows to operational and quality-control environments.
• Supervise equipment installation, validation, and qualification to ensure required performance standards.
• Complete required training programs and contribute to cross-functional projects.

Requirements

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field, with laboratory automation experience in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry.
• Hands-on proficiency with at least one laboratory automation platform or liquid handler, such as Hamilton STAR, Tecan Fluent/EVO, Biomek i-Series, or Agilent Bravo.
• Experience writing or editing automation scripts using tools such as VENUS, EVOware, Python APIs, or Java APIs.
• Experience with assay development and optimization in an R&D or high-throughput environment.
• Understanding of data flows, system integration, and digital laboratory systems including LIMS and ELN.
• Strong English communication and presentation skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional projects.

Culture & Benefits

• Agile career opportunities and a dynamic working culture.
• Inclusive and ethical workplace focused on collaboration, accountability, excellence, passion, and integrity.
• Performance-recognition compensation programs.
• Benefits vary according to role and location.
• Global teams collaborate across more than 30 sites on multiple continents.