QC Analyst – Environmental & Analytical Chemistry
Smithers ERS Limited | ResChem | Derby
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a QC Analyst to join the Residue Chemistry (ResChem) Analytical team within the Environmental Risk Sciences (ERS) division of Smithers, based in Derby.
This role is ideal for an experienced analytical or quality assurance professional with a strong understanding of regulated scientific data review and a passion for quality, compliance and scientific excellence. The successful candidate will play an important role in supporting the quality control of analytical and report data generated in support of global agrochemical regulatory programmes.
Smithers ERS Limited provides environmental and regulatory safety testing services across the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, biocidal, industrial and specialty chemical sectors. Our teams support global clients by generating robust, regulator-ready data to inform environmental risk and safety assessments.
Working predominantly with agrochemical customers, the ResChem team (part of Smithers ERS) delivers crop residue and analytical method studies that support environmental and product risk assessments across the agri-food chain.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative scientific team in a role involving a significant data review and scientific oversight component, offering flexibility for both full-time and part-time applicants.
The Role
Reporting to the Test Facility Manager, the QC Analyst will support scientific operations through independent review and quality control of analytical data packages and associated study reports, ensuring compliance with applicable quality standards, client expectations and regulatory requirements.
This role is suited to candidates with prior experience working with analytical data sets in a GLP environment, and applicants with strong QA backgrounds and relevant regulated industry experience will also be considered.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform quality control review of analytical raw data, calculations, summaries and study documentation for accuracy, consistency and compliance
- Support review of draft analytical and crop residue study reports prior to issue to clients and regulatory submission
- Verify data integrity, traceability and adherence to GLP principles, study plans, SOPs and applicable guidance
- Work closely with Study Directors, analysts and scientific staff to resolve data queries and support right-first-time delivery
- Contribute to quality oversight of analytical methods and study conduct across scientific operations
- Contribute to routine laboratory compliance and operational activities, supporting adherence to GLP principles and the effective day-to-day functioning of the laboratory
- Support identification of data trends, documentation improvements and opportunities to strengthen compliance and efficiency
- Assist with preparation, checking and maintenance of study records and associated controlled documentation
- Contribute to internal quality improvement initiatives and support inspection readiness activities
- Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary scientific and quality-focused team
Qualifications and Experience
- BSc (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry or a related scientific discipline
- Experience working with analytical data review in a GLP-regulated environment is essential
- Experience in QA, quality review or regulated data auditing would be highly advantageous; applicants from QA backgrounds are encouraged to apply
- Understanding of crop residue studies, analytical method validation or agrochemical regulatory studies would be desirable
- Familiarity with chromatographic data packages and associated technical documentation is advantageous
- Strong attention to detail with an ability to critically review complex scientific data sets
- Well organised, proactive and able to manage priorities in a collaborative environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Working Pattern
We recognise the flexibility this role can offer and welcome applications from candidates seeking full or part-time working arrangements. Given the significant desk-based nature of the role, flexible working options can be considered.
We Offer
We offer a supportive environment where scientists and quality professionals can develop their skills while working on meaningful and impactful projects. Benefits include:
- Private Medical Insurance with Bupa
- Employer-matched pension contributions
- Eyecare vouchers
- Ride to Work scheme
- Life assurance cover
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Free mortgage advice service
Join Smithers and contribute to high-quality science that supports the safety and sustainability of the agri-food chain.
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Skills Required
- BSc in Chemistry or related discipline
- Experience in analytical data review in a GLP-regulated environment
- Experience in QA or regulated data auditing
- Understanding of crop residue studies or agrochemical regulatory studies
What We Do
Our team helps medical device and pharmaceutical product manufacturers bring innovative, compliant and highly effective products to market with world-class expertise and extensive, independent testing capabilities at accredited facilities in the UK and USA. Our experienced medical device and extractables and leachables (E&L) testing teams will provide advice, guidance and recommendations as well as delivering test data to help you demonstrate compliance to regulatory guidance or specifications set out by the FDA, EMA, MHRA, USP, ASTM and ISO. Smithers also supports the pharmaceutical industry and the development of biologics and vaccines from discovery through phase IV, with expertise that includes bioassays and high sensitivity assays. Our scientists have expertise in large molecule bioanalysis assay development, validation, and sample analysis.
