Senior / Principal Scientist – Molecular Pharmacology
Location:Reading
Salary:Competitive Salary + Benefits Package
We are supporting an innovative biotechnology organisation in the search for a Senior or Principal Scientist with expertise in molecular pharmacology and biologics discovery. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced scientist to play a key role in advancing next-generation therapeutic antibody programmes within a collaborative and fast-paced research environment.
This position would suit an experienced industry scientist with strong expertise across in vitro pharmacology, assay development, molecular and cell biology, and biologics discovery. The successful individual will contribute both strategically and hands-on, helping shape discovery programmes while mentoring scientific colleagues and driving innovation across the organisation.
The Opportunity
As part of a growing discovery team, you will lead and contribute to the development of novel antibody and biologic therapeutics targeting important disease pathways. You will work cross-functionally with research and development teams, applying scientific insight and technical expertise to support candidate identification and progression.
This role offers the opportunity to influence scientific direction, implement new technologies, and contribute to the continued growth of a highly collaborative biotech environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design, optimisation, validation, and execution of in vitro pharmacology and bioassay strategies
Develop and implement screening cascades to identify and characterise lead therapeutic candidates
Conduct mechanism-of-action studies and support preclinical biologics discovery programmes
Drive assay development across a range of target classes and screening formats, including high-throughput approaches
Evaluate and introduce innovative technologies, instrumentation, and methodologies
Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams across discovery, development, and manufacturing functions
Mentor and support scientists across varying experience levels, fostering a collaborative team culture
Analyse, interpret, and present scientific data to internal stakeholders and external collaborators
Contribute to scientific strategy and support partnerships with external organisations where required
About You
We are looking for a scientifically curious and collaborative individual with a strong background in pharmacology and biologics discovery. You will bring a combination of technical expertise, leadership capability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Essential Experience & Qualifications
PhD in Pharmacology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline
Significant industry experience within biotechnology or pharmaceutical drug discovery environments
Strong expertise in in vitro pharmacology, assay development, and molecular/cellular biology techniques
Experience working on antibody or biologic therapeutic programmes
Proven ability to lead scientific projects and mentor research teams
Strong understanding of pharmacology principles and mechanism-of-action studies
Experience analysing and interpreting complex biological datasets
Excellent communication and collaboration skills across multidisciplinary teams
Apply Now
If you are an experienced scientist looking to make a meaningful impact within an ambitious and forward-thinking biotech environment, we would welcome your
Cranleigh STEM is a specialist recruitment partner in STEM, Sustainability, and SHEQ. We work with innovative organisations and purpose-led professionals to help solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from advancing clean technologies to driving scientific discovery.
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Headquartered in South London, we work with clients and candidates across the UK, Europe, and the USA.
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