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.
Responsibilities:
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
About You
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
Desirable (but not essential):
- 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.
Apply now by attaching your CV in Word, or contact Paige Keenan for further information about this new role: paige.keenan@srgtalent.com