Principal - MSAT

Northreach is a dynamic recruitment agency that connects businesses with top talent in the Advanced Therapies sector. Our mission is to provide a seamless and personalised recruitment experience for clients and candidates, and to create a positive work environment that encourages equality, innovation, and professional growth.

Job Title: Principal Scientist – Manufacturing Science & Technology (MSAT)

Overview: We are seeking a Principal Scientist to lead our Manufacturing Science & Technology (MSAT) team. This role involves overseeing a team of cell process experts, providing technical guidance, and ensuring seamless integration between process development and manufacturing. We offer a dynamic and innovative environment dedicated to advancing therapies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead project management and provide technical expertise to production teams, serving as the primary authority on the manufacturing process.
• Oversee development, technology transfer, and validation activities, fostering collaboration through transparent communication, strategic insight, and meticulous attention to detail.
• Build and maintain effective partnerships with cross-functional teams (Project Management, Quality Control, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, Production, Analytical Development, Process Development, Regulatory) to support tech transfers and PPQ campaigns.
• Develop and implement systems for data management, trend analysis, and process improvement.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for continuous improvement based on trend analysis, technological advances, and new industry standards.
• Act as a technical expert on MSAT for internal and external projects, presenting and contributing as needed.
• Ensure proper equipment qualification during process validation, confirming correct installation, efficient operation, and robust performance.
• Design and implement training programs, mentoring and coaching technical and production operators to build a high-performing team.
• Lead evaluations of deviations, root-cause analysis, CAPA, and change control processes, with a focus on quality, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance.

Required Experience and Skills:

• Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff.
• In-depth knowledge of immunology and cell therapy.
• Expertise in cell-based techniques including cell enrichment, culture, and formulation.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage a team and collaborate across multiple sites.
• Resourcefulness and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working with production teams, conducting root cause analysis, and managing non-product quality impacting deviations.
• Ability to author and review batch records, bill of materials, and change controls.
• Familiarity with quality management systems (e.g., Q-Pulse).
• Experience with technology transfer and working with CDMOs is a plus.
• Training in Six Sigma and/or manufacturing excellence methodologies is advantageous.

Technical Skills:

• Strong time and project management abilities.
• Minimum MSc in a relevant field with 4+ years of industry and/or academic experience.
• Commitment to high-quality work and maintaining high standards.
• Ability to foster a culture of scientific excellence, integrity, urgency, patient centricity, and continuous improvement.
• Experience in cGMP development and/or cell therapy product manufacturing is highly desirable.

Personal Attributes:

• Collaborative team player, supporting colleagues and holding oneself accountable for project outcomes.
• Driven, goal-oriented, and detail-focused.
• Professional and personable communication skills.
• Pragmatic problem-solver.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills for managing diverse workloads.
• Reliable, flexible, and dedicated to maintaining a high standard of work.
• Willingness to work across multiple sites in London (Guys and St Thomas’ (GSTT) and White City).

Northreach is an equal opportunity employer and we do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or age. We are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and hiring practices, therefore only partner with business that promote DEI. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees.