Senior Research Scientist (Industry)

General role description

Senior Research Scientists lead applied scientific investigations that drive innovation in health technologies, public health programs, and medical product development. They design complex studies, guide research teams, and ensure that outputs are high-quality, evidence-based, and aligned with organisational goals. This role often includes managing cross-functional collaborations, mentoring early-career researchers, and contributing to regulatory submissions or strategic planning. Senior Research Scientists translate findings into practical applications, whether improving public health outcomes, developing new diagnostics or therapeutics, or informing government or industry decision-making.

Key tasks and responsibilities

  • Lead the design, execution, and analysis of research studies that support product development, clinical innovation, or public health outcomes
  • Supervise and mentor research staff, including early-career scientists and students
  • Ensure research activities comply with relevant standards, ethics, and regulatory requirements
  • Collaborate with internal teams (e.g. clinical, regulatory, data, manufacturing) and external partners (e.g. government agencies or commercial collaborators)
  • Translate research findings into reports, presentations, and technical documents that inform decision-making or product development

Workplace settings

  • Pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies
  • Government, not-for-profit, peak body and advocacy organisations involved in research

Required qualifications

  • A degree in biomedical science, biotechnology, chemistry, molecular biology, or a related field
  • Master’s or PhD qualifications are typically required

Other notable requirements

  • 5+ years of hands-on research experience in a health, medical, or scientific setting
  • Strong skills in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific communication
  • Experience leading projects or research teams in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment
  • Familiarity with relevant regulatory, quality, and ethical frameworks (e.g. GLP, ISO, TGA)

Common next roles

Research Project Manager Manager, Specific Function

Principal Scientist (a senior technical expert who leads complex scientific work; operates at the same level as a Manager but without formal people or resource management responsibilities)

Related roles

Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) Scientist