Scientist - Analytical and Purification Sciences
Cambridge, United Kingdom | Full time | Office-based | R1566802
IQVIA Discovery Sciences is seeking an experienced, innovative, and highly motivated Scientist to join our Analytical and Purification Sciences team at our Cambridge site.
This is an exciting opportunity to work within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment, where you will play a key role in analysing and purifying a diverse range of small molecules to advance drug discovery programmes for our clients.
The Role
As a Scientist, you will combine strong technical expertise with strategic thinking to deliver high-quality analytical and purification solutions. You will help drive innovation, optimise methodologies, and contribute to the integration of advanced technologies including AI and automation to accelerate DMTA cycles.
This role extends beyond routine execution, offering the opportunity to contribute to future capabilities, challenge existing approaches, and enhance overall analytical performance.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver high-quality analytical and purification data to support compound progression across multiple projects
Develop and optimise chromatographic methodologies for complex and challenging molecules
Apply expertise across UPLC/HPLC, SFC, mass spectrometry, and/or NMR to solve diverse analytical problems
Contribute to innovation in analytical and purification workflows, including plate-based methodologies and/or NMR
Drive the integration of AI, machine learning, and automation within laboratory workflows
Identify opportunities to leverage data science to improve predictive capability, throughput, and decision-making
Demonstrate strategic awareness to help evolve departmental capabilities and future direction
Act as a mentor and role model, providing scientific guidance and supervision to junior colleagues
Take a hands-on role in instrument troubleshooting, maintenance, and optimisation
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a proactive scientist with a strong blend of technical depth, curiosity, and leadership capability:
Proven experience in achiral and chiral automated purification
Strong practical expertise in UPLC/HPLC, SFC, NMR, and mass spectrometry
Demonstrated experience in method development and chromatographic optimisation
Experience applying AI/ML approaches within analytical workflows, data interpretation, or laboratory automation
Hands-on approach to troubleshooting and maintaining analytical instrumentation
Experience with relevant software platforms such as MassLynx, ChemStation, Chromscope, or Trilution (advantageous)
Track record of implementing new technologies or creative approaches to improve performance and efficiency
Experience in scaling methods from analytical to preparative chromatography
Passion for mentoring and developing junior scientists
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Why Join Us?
Work at the forefront of small molecule drug discovery within a global CRO environment
Be part of a team driving innovation in analytical science and purification technologies
Contribute to the adoption of AI, automation, and next-generation workflows
Play a key role in accelerating data-driven decision-making and DMTA cycles
Develop your career within a collaborative, scientifically ambitious environment
IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and healthcare intelligence to the life sciences and healthcare industries. We create intelligent connections to accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide. Learn more at https://jobs.iqvia.com
IQVIA is committed to integrity in our hiring process and maintains a zero tolerance policy for candidate fraud. All information and credentials submitted in your application must be truthful and complete. Any false statements, misrepresentations, or material omissions during the recruitment process will result in immediate disqualification of your application, or termination of employment if discovered later, in accordance with applicable law. We appreciate your honesty and professionalism.
Where you'll work
Office-based
You’ll work primarily from one of our office locations, collaborating closely with colleagues in a dynamic, team-oriented environment. This setting offers access to on-site resources, real-time interaction and opportunities to build strong relationships through in-person work.
"I like that we're different. I like that we're a unique organization unlike any other. I like to think of us as the intelligence company for life sciences and healthcare. I do believe there's nothing else like this organization in the world. So if you like something that's different and interesting, you're going to like IQVIA. If you like an organization that has a variety of opportunities, from IT to big data to AI to finance to HR, there are so many opportunities to have an impact."
Culture
Culture at IQVIA is built on a shared belief: that when people are empowered with better data, smarter technology and deeper expertise, they can change what’s possible for patients. Across every team and every corner of the globe, you’ll find colleagues who genuinely care — about the mission and about each other. That’s what makes this a place where people tend to stay, grow and do the best work of their careers.
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