Scientist

Location: Cambridgeshire, UK | Type: Permanent | Salary: £38,000–£45,000, dependent on experience, plus excellent benefits Sector: Biotech / Contract Research (Antibody & Peptide Discovery) Confidential Search — handled by Joynes & Hunt

About the Opportunity

Our client is an established biotech CRO with deep expertise in identifying small-format antibody fragments and peptides and developing them into therapeutic candidates, partnering with leading global biopharma companies. They're looking for a Scientist to join their Alliances team, delivering discovery projects that help bring new medicines, diagnostics and other cutting-edge solutions to market.

This is a confidential search — the identity of our client will be shared with shortlisted candidates ahead of interview.

The Role

This is a primarily lab-based role where you'll mine established antibody and peptide libraries to identify optimal lead candidates for partner projects, applying both standardised methods and your own creative problem-solving to develop project-specific approaches. You'll work closely with both external partners and internal teams, taking ownership of experimental design, execution and data interpretation, while building your skills in communicating scientific results and developing client relationships.

Day to day, you'll:

• Deliver small-format antibody (e.g. VHH) and/or peptide discovery projects for external biopharma partners
• Mine internal antibody/peptide libraries to identify optimal lead candidates that meet project goals
• Apply standardised methods, while developing new project-specific techniques where needed
• Take a rigorous, scientific approach to experimental design, execution and data interpretation
• Communicate with partners and the wider team, translating data into clear scientific narratives and case studies
• Build strong working relationships with external partners to support shared project goals
• Work increasingly autonomously as you grow into the role, while collaborating closely with a wider team of scientists

What We're Looking For

• A PhD in a Life Sciences subject, or equivalent experience, ideally in antibody discovery or within a CRO environment
• Hands-on wet-lab experience in display technologies, ideally phage display
• Strong organisational skills, able to prioritise effectively and meet deadlines
• A proactive, outcomes-focused mindset, comfortable working independently while remaining a strong team player
• Willingness to learn new techniques and adapt to varying partner and project goals
• A conscientious, safety-conscious approach to lab work
• The right to work in the UK

What's on Offer

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Workplace pension with an 8% employer contribution
• Income Protection and Life Insurance
• Private Medical Insurance (on completion of probation)
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling and GP access
• Tailored professional development, including in-house and external training
• Excellent on-site facilities in a landscaped, parkland setting

How to Apply

For a confidential conversation about this role, get in touch with Joynes & Hunt.