Category: Research
Location: Oxford, South East, United Kingdom
Workplace: Oxford, United Kingdom
Application Deadline: January 11, 2026
About the Organization
Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company focused on defeating serious chronic diseases and improving long-term health outcomes. The organization operates with a strong scientific mindset, values curiosity, and promotes collaboration across disciplines. Its teams work on solutions to treat, prevent, and potentially cure diseases that affect millions of lives worldwide.
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Role Summary
Novo Nordisk is seeking a Research Scientist to join its Functional Genomics Group within the In Vitro Science department. This position supports target discovery and progression research in metabolic diseases, including diabetes and obesity. The role is offered as maternity leave cover and contributes directly to pipeline decisions that influence patient outcomes.
Core Responsibilities
Functional Genomics and Screening
The Research Scientist designs, executes, and optimizes in vitro functional genomics and screening workflows. These workflows support target discovery and progression within the Novo Nordisk pipeline.
Assay Development and Cell Engineering
The role involves engineering cell lines and performing gene editing to develop and validate robust assays. These assays are used for functional genomics studies and screening activities.
High Throughput Experimental Execution
The scientist conducts medium- to high-throughput functional genomics screens using advanced perturbation methods. They quantify disease-relevant functional or phenotypic responses in complex human in vitro models.
Experimental Design and Optimization
Design of Experiments principles are applied to accelerate assay development. Workflows are continuously adapted based on real-time data to improve performance and data quality.
Automation and Digital Tools
The role requires operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated and semi-automated equipment. Experiments are consistently documented in electronic laboratory notebooks and internal databases.
Data Analysis and Insight Generation
Screening data is analyzed independently using established quality metrics and digital tools. Results are translated into clear and concise insights that support target selection decisions.
Collaboration and Reporting
The Research Scientist collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to progress projects and support partnerships. The role also contributes to timely reporting and scientific publications.
Team and Department
The position sits within the Functional Genomics Group in the In Vitro Science department in the United Kingdom. The team works closely with Target Discovery and Technology Leaders and collaborates across multiple scientific disciplines. Experimental biology, automation, and digital biology approaches are combined to accelerate target identification and validation.
Best Candidate Profile
Educational Background
Candidates should hold a PhD or a master’s degree with three to five years of relevant experience. The field of study should be Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a closely related discipline.
Technical Expertise
Applicants should have hands-on experience in assay development and in the execution of medium- to high-throughput in vitro functional genomics or cell-based screens. Experience with gene editing, cell engineering techniques, and automation or semi-automation platforms is essential.
Data and Analytical Skills
The role requires the ability to analyze experimental data independently using appropriate statistical approaches and digital tools. Familiarity with FAIR data principles and electronic laboratory notebooks is expected.
Problem Solving and Communication
Strong problem-solving skills are required to troubleshoot complex assays and implement improvements with minimal supervision. Clear communication of project work and results to cross-functional teams is essential.
Working at Novo Nordisk
Employees at Novo Nordisk work in an innovative and collaborative environment that supports learning and professional development. The organization values scientific rigor and encourages cross-functional collaboration. Contributions made in this role directly influence target selection and pipeline progression, with the potential to have a meaningful impact on patients.
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Additional Information
Novo Nordisk is currently adjusting job titles globally. As a result, the job title stated in this advertisement may change during the recruitment process. Further details will be shared with shortlisted candidates, or you can visit the official careers page.
The company is committed to an inclusive recruitment process and provides equal opportunity to all applicants.