Lonza

R&D Software Engineer

Today, Lonza is a global leader in life sciences operating across three 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.

We seek a proactive, skilled, and enthusiastic Software Engineer to fulfil an entirely new and unique role at our Slough site, to enhance our Biologics Research and Development (R&D). The ideal candidate would have a demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing software solutions to automate laboratory processes. You will achieve this by creating, implementing, and managing easy-to-use lab software solutions and user interfaces to link with our new automation systems within Biologics R&D.

This will be a vital component in forming the first basis of in-house automation on our site and so you will work closely with our lab scientists, bioinformaticians, as well as our other newly-created appointment, the R&D Automation Engineer, who will be your counterpart on the hardware side.

Key responsibilities:

• Engage directly with laboratory scientists and other stakeholders to comprehend challenges and requirements, and to propose and/or implement robust software applications accordingly.
• Identify, Design, develop, and implement easy-to-use software solutions and user interfaces for both new and existing robotic equipment, integrated systems, and liquid handling platforms to automate laboratory processes, including data acquisition and reporting.
• Provide technical support and training to laboratory staff on the use of automation software and systems, troubleshooting issues and optimizing performance as needed.
• Integrate laboratory instruments, such as liquid handling systems, robotic arms, and analytical instruments, with software solutions to enable seamless data exchange and process automation
• Adapt, tailor, and maintain both new and existing robotic equipment, integrated systems, and liquid handling platforms to facilitate the automation of laboratory processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including IT, bioinformatics, and quality assurance, to align automation efforts with overall business objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Document software designs, implementation details, and validation protocols in accordance with company standards and regulatory guidelines
• Demonstrate familiarity with Biopharma 4.0 digitalization initiatives.
• Participate in required Lonza training programs.
• Willing to travel to other Lonza sites within the UK and Europe, accounting for approximately 10% of working time

Key requirements:

• Possess an MSc in Bioengineering, Computer Engineering or other relevant discipline.
• Demonstrated depth of proficiency and experience in laboratory automation
• Proficient programming skills in Python, Java ,SQL with a focus on automation and software development.
• Experience of automation integration of hardware into data infrastructure, scheduling systems, cloud infrastructure and other analytical and data visualization tools.
• Strong understanding of laboratory automation platforms, including liquid handling systems, robotic arms, and integrated software solutions.
• Experience with LIMS/ELN systems
• Proven track record of innovation and experience in leading interdisciplinary hardware/software automation projects
• Proven track record of innovation and experience in leading complex technology projects
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities to a diverse audience

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.

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