Principal Scientist, Automation Platforms

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is searching for an experienced and technically adept Principal Scientist to join our new RTech Automation team within Data, Automation & Predictive Sciences (DAPS) in our Research Technologies (RTech) division. RTech Automation will spearhead the integration of automation technologies into our scientific workflows to deliver chemistry and data at scale. A critical component of RTech's vision as a technology-driven leader in target discovery and molecule design is the establishment of an integrated design-generate-analyze-model-predict cycle within DAPS, supported by this centralized Automation/Engineering team. This team will transform RTech by deploying cutting-edge lab automation and robotics at global sites, serving as a center for expertise and support to align strategies and maximize automation investments.

The successful candidate will join a team including automation engineers, application specialists and IT specialists. The team will be responsible for the optimization, management, and support of comprehensive automation platforms critical to our operations. This role requires an individual with expertise in technical automation systems, both integrated platforms and standalone devices. The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise in laboratory automation, and a proven record of successfully leveraging automation solutions to impact scientific objectives. They will forge robust partnerships, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and play a vital role in driving the success of automation technologies. The overarching goal of the team is to leverage automation to enhance our operational efficiency, improve scientists' lab experience, support research processes, and further our commitment to delivering advanced therapies.

This role is a pivotal position for advancing our capabilities in automated chemical synthesis, process development, and data-rich experimentation. The ideal candidate will combine a strong background in chemistry with a deep expertise in laboratory automation, robotics, and software integration to accelerate drug discovery efforts. This is a hands-on, lab-based role that requires a strategic mindset. You will lead the design, implementation, and optimization of automated workflows, bridging the gap between medicinal chemistry, process development, and data science to enhance R&D productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Automation Strategy & Implementation: Lead the design, programming, and implementation of automated solutions for synthetic and analytical chemistry workflows. This includes robotics, liquid handlers, and integrated workcells to increase throughput, efficiency, and data quality.
• Workflow Development: Collaborate with medicinal chemists, process chemists, and other scientists to identify opportunities for automation. Develop, validate, and optimize new automated methods and protocols, translating manual laboratory workflows into robust, reproducible automated solutions.
• Technology Integration: Serve as a subject matter expert for laboratory automation systems. Integrate various instruments, software, and data platforms (e.g., LIMS, ELN) to create seamless, end-to-end workflows that enable automated data capture and analysis.
• Troubleshooting & Maintenance: Provide expert-level troubleshooting and technical support for automation hardware and software. Perform root cause analysis and collaborate with internal experts and external vendors to maintain operational excellence and ensure minimal downtime.
• Data & Digitalization: Partner with data scientists and informatics teams to ensure the automated systems produce high-quality, structured data. Help develop data flows and pipelines to enable AI/ML applications and support data-rich experimentation.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Lead projects as a key contributor or project manager. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists, foster a collaborative environment, and champion a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the team.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with 2-5 years of hands-on experience in laboratory automation, or a Master's degree with 5-8 years of relevant experience.
• Experience with major laboratory automation platforms and scheduling software (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Agilent, HighRes BioSolutions, Biosero Green Button Go).
• Prior work experience in scripting and programming languages relevant to automation (e.g., Python, C#, VBScript).
• Experience working with chemical principles in a synthetic or analytical chemistry laboratory.
• Experience with project management, including defining scope, managing timelines, and delivering projects from inception to completion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience automating workflows for small molecule synthesis and purification.
• Proven ability to work in a cross-functional, collaborative environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with data science methodologies and AI/ML applications in a laboratory setting.
• Experience in a regulated environment (e.g., GMP, GxP).
• Proficiency in CAD software and rapid prototyping.
• Knowledge of instrument APIs and database integration.

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