Senior Scientist in Ophthalmology Bioassay. Colwick LilyLifestyle

Ophthalmology Bioassay Senior Scientist - Nottingham On-site

We are seeking an Ophthalmology Bioassay Senior Scientist to join a growing, innovative CRO environment focused on developing next‑generation human‑relevant disease models
.

This role sits at the forefront of moving drug discovery away from traditional animal models, with a strong emphasis on advanced in‑vitro systems
, including iPSC‑derived models and 3D organoids for ocular diseases.

You will play a key role in building and developing capability in ophthalmology
, contributing to both project delivery and the longer‑term growth of this area of the business. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys combining hands‑on lab work, scientific innovation, and commercial impact
.

Ocular Model Development

• Develop and optimise human‑relevant ocular disease models
• Design and implement iPSC‑derived systems
  , including retinal and epithelial models
• Contribute to the development of complex 3D organoid and co‑culture systems

Assay Development & Delivery

• Design and execute bioassays relevant to ocular disease
  , including:
• Imaging and fluorescence‑based assays
• Immunoassays
• Functional and translational assays
• Analyse and interpret experimental data and present findings clearly to stakeholders

Molecular & Cell Biology

• Apply molecular biology techniques including:
• Gene knockdown approaches (e.g. siRNA, shRNA)
• Work with primary cells, cell lines, and stem‑cell derived models
• Support development of increasingly complex and physiologically relevant systems

Project Delivery & Growth

• Support delivery of CRO projects across drug discovery programmes
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and drive continuous improvement
• Contribute to building and scaling ophthalmology capability
  , including future team growth
• Engage with clients and support scientific discussions where required

You are a scientist with strong hands‑on experience in advanced cellular models
, particularly within ophthalmology or closely related disease areas.

You'll bring:

• Experience working with iPSC‑derived systems and/or 3D organoid models (critical)
• Strong laboratory experience across bioassays, imaging, and molecular biology techniques
• Experience working with ocular models or strong transferable cell biology experience
• A proactive, problem‑solving mindset with the ability to work independently

• PhD in Ophthalmology, Cell Biology, Stem Cell Biology, or a related discipline
• Experience in a CRO or fast‑paced applied research environment
• Exposure to replacing or reducing animal models with human‑relevant systems
• Interest in helping build or grow a new scientific capability or team

If you're excited by organoids, stem cell models, and reducing reliance on animal testing
, this role will give you the platform to make a real impact.