USP Pilot Scientist

Today, Lonza is a global leader in life sciences operating across five continents. While we work in science, there’s no magic formula to how we do it. Our greatest scientific solution is talented people working together, devising ideas that help businesses to help people. In exchange, we let our people own their careers. Their ideas, big and small, genuinely improve the world. And that’s the kind of work we want to be part of.

The role:

Lonza AG in Slough, UK offers an outstanding opportunity for a Pilot Scientist. This role allows ambitious individuals to gain hands-on experience in biotech processes, in a dynamic team environment. As a member of the Pilot batch execution team, you will play a crucial role in transferring Upstream processes into a pilot.

This position includes 70% laboratory work and 30% practical planning duties, providing continuous engagement and challenges. Biological processes, while generally predictable, occasionally require flexibility in responding to events outside of normal working hours, including working at the weekends!

Key responsibilities:

• Complete Pilot batches by operating equipment and acquiring technical knowledge of USP operations, contributing to the flawless planning of each batch.
• Communicate effectively with Process Development/R&D and the Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT) team to ensure successful scaling to cGMP manufacturing.
• Follow written process documentation and procedures developed in collaboration with cross-functional project team members to enable successful scale-up to cGMP manufacturing.
• Prepare process descriptions, batch records, and order raw materials for USP operations.
• Collaborate within the pilot execution team to plan and manage daily tasks in operating plant equipment and associated analytical technologies, ensuring strict adherence to transfer documentation.
• Develop knowledge to resolve routine process issues and identify trends through data reviews, with support from senior team members.
• Collaborate with Senior Pilot Scientists and MSAT Technology Transfer representatives to collate and analyse batch data, ensuring accurate preparation of process summary reports for customers.
• Complete EHS protocols, enhancing pilot operations through on-the-job training and experience.
• Contribute to continuous improvement activities to reduce costs, increase yield, and enhance efficiency.
• Begin developing key relationships with Process Development, R&D, and MSAT TT peers to improve communication and understand project objectives.

Key requirements:

• Degree or equivalent experience (required): BSc/BEng in Biological Science or Biochemical Engineering subject areas.
• Preferred experience in a manufacturing environment or pilot laboratory.
• Strong interpersonal skills, ability to contribute effectively within the team, proficiency in structured data analysis, report writing, and SOPs.
• Outstanding attention to detail to complete work flawlessly.
• Proven problem-solving abilities, integrity, self-motivation, and a positive attitude.

Every day, Lonza’s products and services have a positive impact on millions of people. For us, this is not only a great privilege, but also a great responsibility. How we achieve our business results is just as important as the achievements themselves. At Lonza, we respect and protect our people and our environment. Any success we achieve is no success at all if not achieved ethically.

People come to Lonza for the challenge and creativity of solving complex problems and developing new ideas in life sciences. In return, we offer the satisfaction that comes with improving lives all around the world. The satisfaction that comes with making a meaningful difference.