Senior Scientist – SME Mass Spectrometry
Location: Southampton
Department: Oligonucleotide Production
Join our high-performing Oligonucleotide Production Team in Southampton, where innovation meets excellence. We are seeking a Senior Scientist with deep expertise in Mass Spectrometry to lead analytical strategy and contribute to the development and production of high-quality modified oligonucleotides.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• PhD in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in a high-throughput chemistry or oligonucleotide production environment.
• Extensive hands-on experience with Mass Spectrometry, ideally including Waters LC-MS systems (Experience of waters connect is highly desirable)
• Strong background in nucleic acid chemistry and familiarity with purification techniques. Oligonucleotide experience is highly desirable
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, mentor junior staff, and influence scientific strategy.
• Experience working within ISO or GMP-regulated environments.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• The successful candidate will be a self-starter with the ability to work under pressure in a fast-changing environment, detail orientated along with strong communication skills.

• Lead and oversee analytical workflows involving LC-MS, HPLC, PAGE, UPLC-MS and flash.
• chromatography to support oligonucleotide synthesis and purification.
• Act as the subject matter expert (SME) in Mass Spectrometry, driving method development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Collaborate cross-functionally to optimize small molecule preparation and oligonucleotide synthesis processes.
• Maintain and calibrate analytical instrumentation, ensuring high performance and compliance with quality standards.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Associate Scientists and Lab Technicians, supporting training and development.
• Ensure rigorous documentation and data integrity in line with ISO and internal quality systems.
• Champion Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards and promote a culture of safety and compliance.
• Manage inventory and procurement of analytical reagents and consumables.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and methodologies in nucleic acid chemistry and analytical science.