Principal Scientist in Bracknell

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Job Description

Job Title: Principal Scientist - Protein

Working Location: Bracknell

Rate: £23.89 per hour

Contract Length: 24 months

Start Date: 19th January 2026

We are seeking a Principal Scientist to direct and inform our process development and discovery. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of protein expression systems and how to optimise conditions to improve protein quality. They will also require a good knowledge of protein purification methods to leverage the optimisation in expression conditions to maximise final protein quality. This two-year contract offers the opportunity for the successful candidate to join a dynamic team that works across multidisciplinary functions in a leading AgriTech business.

Role profile:

• Lead upstream process development for recombinant protein production.
• Provide scientific leadership and technical guidance to team members and project teams.
• Be the technical lead to translate expression optimisation from shake flask to bioreactor.
• Design and refine expression methods and protocols to optimize protein quality.
• Investigate the relationship between expression conditions and protein quality attributes across key projects.
• Collaborate with team members and across functions to enhance overall process improvements.
• Drive optimisations in upstream processes with a data led approach.
• Work safely and with due care to others ensuring compliance with company HSE policies.

Essential experience:

• Post Doc or equivalent experience in Biotechnology, Microbiology or other similar disciplines.
• 8 + years of hands-on experience in upstream bioprocessing with expertise in:
• Recombinant protein expression (bacterial, insect, yeast or plant systems).
• Knowledge and experience of working with bioreactors.
• Experience and knowledge of transferring shake flask processes into bioreactors.
• Good knowledge of protein purification methods and techniques.
• Strong evidence of troubleshooting and innovative problem solving.
• Strong understanding of how upstream decisions impact downstream processing outcomes.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present complex concepts clearly.

Desirable experience:

• Knowledge of how construct design can impact protein expression.
• Knowledge and application of AI tools and models to inform experimental design.
• Knowledge of DoE approaches for method optimisation.
• Experience with Ambr250 micro bioreactor systems.
• Background in protein characterisation to validate protein quality from a bioprocess.
• Experience of working with scalable bioprocess technologies e.g. Tangential flow filtration
• Industry experience in Biopharma, AgriTech or related sectors.

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