Scientist - Peptide Chemistry

Virax Biolabs UK Ltd is an innovative biotechnology company focused on immune-response detection technologies. The company is developing its flagship ViraxImmune™ profiling platform, aimed at supporting the development of in vitro diagnostic (IVD) assays for chronic and post-infectious conditions, including Long Covid, Lyme disease and ME/CFS. In parallel, Virax Biolabs is expanding ImmuneSelect, a portfolio of products and services supporting immunology and clinical research.

We are recruiting a Peptide Scientist to join our team at BioCity Glasgow. In this role, you will lead the design, synthesis, and analytical characterisation of synthetic peptides supporting both our diagnostic platform development and research product activities. The position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the development of precision diagnostic tools, while building and expanding our in-house peptide manufacturing capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute synthetic peptide projects from concept to completion, including selection of synthesis strategy, protecting group chemistry, and scale considerations.
• Perform solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and systematically optimise synthesis protocols to improve yield, purity, and reproducibility.
• Purify and characterise peptides using HPLC, LC-MS, and complementary analytical techniques; assess and document peptide identity, purity, and stability.
• Design experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot complex technical issues across synthesis and analytical workflows.
• Train and mentor technicians and students in laboratory techniques, instrument operation, and best practices for peptide science.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across R&D, quality, and process development to align peptide deliverables with broader project milestones.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and reagent stocks, and ensure compliance with laboratory safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

What your background should look like

Required:

• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a closely related discipline; or MSc with 4 - 5 years of relevant research or industry experience.
• Demonstrated experience in peptide synthesis and purification techniques, including solid-phase approaches.
• Proficiency with analytical methods including HPLC, LC-MS, and spectroscopy for peptide characterisation.
• Strong documentation practices and data interpretation skills, with attention to detail and a structured approach to experimental work.
• Well-organised and confident working in a quality-conscious laboratory environment.

Preferred (but not essential):

• Experience with large-scale or automated SPPS platforms, or plate-based peptide synthesisers.
• Knowledge of peptide and protein modifications, including labelling, conjugation, and post-synthetic chemical modifications.

What Virax Biolabs Offers

We offer a competitive compensation package, designed to reward performance while supporting long-term growth and flexibility.

• Competitive base salary, aligned with experience
• Performance-based bonus structure
• Employee stock option scheme
• 28 days' annual leave plus UK bank holidays
• Pension scheme with 6% employer and 2% employee contributions