Principal Scientist

LGC Genomics and Diagnostics develops and manufactures a comprehensive portfolio of catalogue and custom‑developed diagnostic quality solutions and component materials for the extended life sciences industry. We partner with IVD assay developers, and pharmaceutical, CRO and academic institutions in commercialization activities across the entire diagnostic pipeline. Laboratorians and diagnostic professionals across disciplines of clinical chemistry, immunochemistry, serology, molecular diagnostics, and clinical genomics rely on LGC’s products to support accurate and reliable diagnostic results.

Our operating entities include Maine Standards Company, Sera Care Life Sciences, and Technopath Clinical Diagnostics, which are in vitro diagnostics (IVD) manufacturers of quality measurement tools (calibrators, controls, linearity, EQA/PT, biological materials), the Native Antigen Company, which is a manufacturer and supplier of viral antigens and LGC Proficiency Testing a global leader in PT schemes. We operate FDA‑registered and ISO 13485‑accredited facilities in Maine (USA), Massachusetts (USA), Maryland (USA), Tipperary (Ireland), ISO 9001‑accredited facility in Oxford, UK, and Traverse City, Michigan US.

Each day, our world‑class staff, scientific expertise, operational efficiency, and superior quality systems are ready to support the range of advanced technologies that collectively improve patient outcomes - from the widely adopted and established through to cutting‑edge NGS and precision diagnostics.

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Principal Scientist to join LGC’s Research team. This is an outstanding opportunity for a technical expert with deep expertise in recombinant protein expression, virology, or microbiology. Experience in immunoassay development, antibody discovery, or display technologies is ideal.

As a Principal Scientist, you will direct complex scientific programmes covering new product development, technology innovation, and custom/co‑creation projects. You will function in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment, ensuring projects are finalized on time, within budget, and to the highest scientific standards.

Reporting directly to the Director of R&D, you will own project strategy, manage execution, and ensure delivery. You will also mentor colleagues and help foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex, multi‑disciplinary R&D projects, ensuring timely and efficient delivery.
• Build and implement scientific project plans, workflows, and experimental strategies within your area of expertise.
• Take full responsibility for project planning, costing, execution, and completion, often across multiple parallel work streams.
• Act as a technical authority, continuously refining methodologies and educating team members in your specialist domain.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external collaborators. Present results and progress updates to senior management, customers, and the wider LGC organisation. Clearly explain the scientific rationale, technical challenges, and strategic value of projects.
• Critically assess data and literature, confidently interpreting and communicating findings from published biological research to diverse audiences.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges through structured root‑cause analysis and innovative problem‑solving.
• Develop and maintain high‑quality documentation, including SOPs, protocols, and batch production records.
• Work safely and confidently within a BSL‑2 laboratory, handling viral, bacterial, and protozoal pathogens in compliance with all relevant biosafety regulations.
• Contribute to and thrive in a multidisciplinary, collaborative team environment, demonstrating strong organisational skills and accountability.

Qualifications

• PhD in biology or related subjects; or equivalent scientific experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in a R&D laboratory, ideally in a commercial entity.
• Proven capability to guide intricate scientific projects from inception through to completion.
• Strong analytical approach with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve scientific…