Associate Scientist - Early Development Studies

Job Description

For our team in Leiden, we are looking for an Associate Scientist. In this role, you support a laboratory team working on early development studies for new large molecule pharmaceuticals.

Please note: this is a temporary position for 6 months, from January 2027 until 30 June 2027.

You will work in a GxP-regulated laboratory environment, where daily operations, safety, documentation and equipment readiness are important for the continuity of the studies.

In this position, you will be responsible for:

• Coordinating and planning laboratory support activities to keep daily lab operations running smoothly
• Taking ownership of study projects within the team
• Aligning with internal and external stakeholders on schedules, priorities, material availability and operational issues
• Performing sample measurements and other hands-on laboratory tasks when additional support is needed during peak workloads
• Supporting calibration, verification and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment
• Managing laboratory inventory, including ordering materials, restocking supplies and monitoring usage
• Keeping the laboratory clean, organized and ready for use through routine cleaning, equipment care and workplace checks
• Supporting compliant disposal of chemical and biological waste according to internal procedures
• Carrying out 6S and safety walks and helping to complete follow-up actions on time
• Working according to applicable GxP requirements and internal procedures
• Following all relevant safety guidelines and internal procedures, and reporting incidents, unsafe situations or near-misses promptly
• Contributing to practical improvements in lab organization, safety, material flow and 5S/Lean ways of working
• Participating in departmental meetings and working with colleagues from different functions to support daily lab activities

Qualifications

For this position, we are looking for someone who meets the following criteria:

• You have completed an MLO or BSc degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Life Sciences or a related field
• You have at least one year of practical laboratory experience and are able to follow written procedures accurately
• Experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech or other regulated laboratory environment is preferred
• Knowledge of GxP guidelines is preferred
• You are able to plan your work based on lab priorities, timelines and requests from the team
• You can work independently, including on study projects, and ask for input when priorities or procedures are unclear
• You work accurately and keep materials, equipment and documentation in order
• You are comfortable working in a support role where tasks may vary between planning, lab work, inventory, cleaning, waste handling and equipment support
• You are able to communicate clearly in English, both spoken and written
• You are willing to contribute ideas when you see opportunities to make the lab safer, better organized or more efficient

Additional Information

Working at PSS means working in a team where people support each other, take responsibility for their work and stay closely connected to the client environment they work in. You will be part of an international setting, with colleagues who value clear communication, teamwork and a good working atmosphere.

We believe it is important that people can keep developing in their role. That is why we offer specialist training and opportunities to build your knowledge and skills further. We also make time to stay connected as a team, for example through monthly team lunches, team activities and moments where colleagues are recognized for their contribution. We offer:

• A responsible position within the team;
• Room to share your ideas and input;
• Specialist training and opportunities for personal and professional development;
• 31 vacation days per year based on a full-time employment contract, with the option to purchase 5 additional days;
• The option to use gross/net benefit schemes for sports and the purchase of a bicycle;
• Access to an online preventive mental health platform;
• A flexible start time between 07:00 and 09:00, depending on team planning and operational needs;
• A suitable salary and additional benefits.

Working at PSS gives you the personal approach of a medium-sized organization, with the wider network and structure of Eurofins as a parent company. In your work, you regularly interact with other companies and scientists within the Eurofins group, which brings variety to the role.

This also means there may be opportunities to grow, depending on your role, experience and development.

Would you like to know more?
For questions about the position, you can contact the hiring team via the ‘I’m interested’ button below.

Acquisition for this vacancy is not appreciated.