Kent & Medway LSIP Sector Roundtable: Health & Life Sciences

Join us for the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Sector Roundtable for Health & Life Sciences (including Medtech) — a strategic, in-person event designed to shape the future of skills in our region.

The Kent & Medway LSIP, funded by UK Government, aims to align local skills provision with the evolving needs of employers, ensuring our workforce is equipped to support sustainable economic growth.

This roundtable is your opportunity to:

  • Share your experiences with the regional skills and education system
  • Highlight current challenges and skills gaps
  • Influence the development of the new Kent & Medway LSIP, due for publication in 2026

We’re seeking input from employers across the health and life sciences sectors (inc Medtech) to ensure all voices are heard and key issues are captured accurately.

Event Details

  • Date:Friday 5th December 2025
  • Time: 10am-12pm
  • Platform: Zoom
  • [Click here to register for the online meeting]

Why Attend?

Your insights are vital to shaping a skills landscape that meets employer needs and supports regional growth. These sessions are designed as open forums for employers to provide feedback on progress and suggest opportunities for collaboration and improvement.

Kent & Medway LSIP Sector Roundtable: Health & Life Sciences

Join us for the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Sector Roundtable for Health & Life Sciences (including Medtech) — a strategic, in-person event designed to shape the future of skills in our region.

The Kent & Medway LSIP, funded by UK Government, aims to align local skills provision with the evolving needs of employers, ensuring our workforce is equipped to support sustainable economic growth.

This roundtable is your opportunity to:

  • Share your experiences with the regional skills and education system
  • Highlight current challenges and skills gaps
  • Influence the development of the new Kent & Medway LSIP, due for publication in 2026

We’re seeking input from employers across the health and life sciences sectors (inc Medtech) to ensure all voices are heard and key issues are captured accurately.

Event Details

  • Date: Wednesday 19th November 2025
  • Time: 10am–12pm
  • Location: The Village Hotel, Maidstone
  • [Click here to register for the in person roundtable]

If you’re unable to attend in person, you can join our online session instead:

  • Date:Friday 5th December 2025
  • Time: 10am-12pm
  • Platform: Zoom
  • [Click here to register for the online meeting]

Both sessions will follow the same format. Please register for the option that best suits your schedule.

Why Attend?

Your insights are vital to shaping a skills landscape that meets employer needs and supports regional growth. These sessions are designed as open forums for employers to provide feedback on progress and suggest opportunities for collaboration and improvement.

Security Team Leader

Position: Security Team Leader

Location:  Discovery Park, Sandwich

Salary: £28,025.43 + £3,503.16 shift allowance + enhanced overtime

 

We’re seeking an experienced Security Team Leader with a valid SIA Licence (Manned Guarding SG or Door Supervisor DS) and proven supervisory experience. This is a hands-on role where you’ll patrol the site, monitor CCTV, respond to incidents, and oversee a team of security officers to maintain high standards of service and compliance. Whilst leading a team, protect a busy site, and ensure the safety of staff, tenants, and visitors.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage a shift team of security officers
  • Patrol and monitor CCTV systems
  • Respond to alarms and onsite incidents
  • Ensure compliance with health & safety and security protocols
  • Prepare reports and maintain records


Requirements:

  • SIA Licence (SG or DS)
  • Supervisory experience in security
  • Strong communication, organisation, and customer service skills
  • Physical ability for patrols and emergency response
  • Full, clean manual driving licence

 

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary + shift allowance + enhanced overtime
  • Annual leave + company sick pay
  • On-site gym, catering discounts, and free parking

 

To apply, email: m.potton@newappointmentsgroup.co.uk

New Appointments Group, Expertly Matching Employers and Jobseekers since 1975.

Before submitting your CV, please take a moment to check the layout, spelling, and grammar. If your CV includes graphics or design features, we’d also appreciate a simplified version in Word format.

Administration Assistant

Position:  Administration Assistant

Location:  Discovery Park, Sandwich (office based)

Salary:  £25,000 to £28,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Contract:  Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.30pm (37.5 hours per week)

 

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Administration Assistant to join our client’s team based in Sandwich. This is a key role in a busy team delivering our process serving offering. This Administration Assistant role is part logistics, part client relationship manager and part report writer.

You will work closely with an experienced team, acting as a crucial link between clients, agents, and internal teams. The role offers variety, responsibility, and the opportunity to develop your administrative, reporting, and client liaison skills in a busy professional environment.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Managing process serving jobs using a case management system, including booking, monitoring progress, and updating clients.
  • Acting as the main point of contact for clients and external agents, ensuring clear communication and timely completion of tasks.
  • Preparing formal reports, statements, and invoices for completed assignments.
  • Providing general administrative support, including filing, scanning, and accurate data entry.
  • Handling emails, incoming calls, and scheduling appointments.
  • Maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with internal procedures.
  • Supporting other administrative areas beyond process serving as required.

 

Person Specification:

  • Previous experience in an administrative role, ideally within compliance, finance, pensions, or legal administration.
  • Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage a high caseload and prioritise tasks effectively.
  • Excellent attention to detail and a meticulous approach to work.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with experience liaising with clients and external partners.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and confident using CRM or case management systems.
  • Fast and accurate typing skills (ideally 60+ wpm).
  • Flexible, adaptable, and willing to work outside standard hours when necessary to meet client needs.
  • Professional, positive, and proactive approach to work.

 

Benefits:

  • Salary of £25,000 to £28,000 per annum, dependent on experience.
  • 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays.
  • Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week.
  • Supportive, collaborative, and busy working environment.
  • Full training provided on company systems and processes.

 

Please note: Your application will only be considered if you are within a commutable distance to Sandwich.

 

To apply, email: m.potton@newappointmentsgroup.co.uk

New Appointments Group, Expertly Matching Employers and Jobseekers since 1975.

Before submitting your CV, please take a moment to check the layout, spelling, and grammar. If your CV includes graphics or design features, we’d also appreciate a simplified version in Word format.

Planning and Support Officer (Maintenance and Electrical)

Position:  Planning and Support Officer (Maintenance and Electrical)

Location:  Discovery Park, Sandwich

Salary:  £23,000 to £25,000 per annum

Contract:  9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, with hybrid working

 

We’re seeking a Planning and Support Officer to join a dynamic team, ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of operations while supporting compliance, safety, and excellent service delivery.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate and schedule maintenance and electrical inspections, ensuring deadlines and compliance standards are met
  • Support operational teams with resource planning and allocation
  • Maintain accurate records, logs, and reports across multiple workstreams
  • Assist with the preparation and tracking of compliance, safety, and quality documentation
  • Contribute to continuous improvement projects and initiatives
  • Liaise effectively with colleagues across departments to ensure smooth day-to-day operations
  • Support the team with ad-hoc administrative tasks and operational activities as required

 

Person Specification:

  • Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
  • A proactive, adaptable approach and a willingness to learn
  • Commitment to safety, integrity, professionalism, and customer focus

 

Benefits:

  • 25 days annual leave plus 3 paid days over Christmas
  • Hybrid working with flexibility to work from home
  • Cycle-to-work scheme
  • Annual paid team celebration

 

To apply, email: m.potton@newappointmentsgroup.co.uk

New Appointments Group, Expertly Matching Employers and Jobseekers since 1975.

Before submitting your CV, please take a moment to check the layout, spelling, and grammar. If your CV includes graphics or design features, we’d also appreciate a simplified version in Word format.

Planning and Support Officer (M&E)

  • Salary: £23,000 – £25,000 (depending on experience)
  • Location: Hybrid (Remote and Office-based)

We’re looking for a proactive and organised team player to join our M&E Planning and Support team. This role is key to ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of our operations, supporting compliance, safety, and outstanding customer service.

You’ll work closely with your team and other departments, helping to coordinate inspections, manage resources, maintain accurate records, and support ongoing improvement projects. This is a great opportunity to develop your knowledge across multiple workstreams while contributing to a positive and collaborative environment.

We’re looking for someone with strong organisational skills, excellent attention to detail, and a passion for learning. If you’re enthusiastic, adaptable, and committed to our Clear Safety values – Safety First, Integrity, Professionalism, Dedication, Customer Centricity, and Innovation – we’d love to hear from you.

What you’ll get:

  • 25 days annual leave, plus 3 paid days over Christmas
  • Remote working
  • Cycle-to-work scheme
  • Annual paid-for team celebration

If you’re ready to join a supportive team that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement, apply today at christine.stringer@clearsafety.co.uk.

Interviews will take place on 5th November.

Undergraduate Industrial Placement Formulation and Process Scientist

Position:      Undergraduate Industrial Placement Formulation and Process Scientist – Viatris

Location:      Discovery Park, Sandwich

Contract:    Full Time

 

At VIATRIS, we see healthcare not as it is but as it should be. We act courageously and are uniquely positioned to be a source of stability in a world of evolving healthcare needs.

Viatris empowers people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life.

We do so via:

Access – Providing high quality trusted medicines regardless of geography or circumstance;
Leadership – Advancing sustainable operations and innovative solutions to improve patient health; and
Partnership – Leveraging our collective expertise to connect people to products and services.
Our global portfolio includes best-in-class, iconic brand-name products as well as global key brands; generics, including branded and complex generics; and other offerings across a wide range of therapeutic areas. We are committed to helping create healthier communities worldwide through education, outreach and better access to treatment.

For those driven to live their lives with purpose, Viatris helps employees realise their full potential by creating a collaborative culture that fosters courage and resilience. Viatris is more than just a place to work. This is a place to make a difference in the world

 

The Role & What You Will Be Doing

Every day, we rise to the challenge to make a difference and here’s how the Undergraduate Industrial Placement Formulation and Process Scientist role will make an impact:

  •  Operates laboratory scale equipment to execute experiments for formulation and process development of inhaled drug products, ensuring they meet technical milestones as discussed with their supervisor.
  • Analyses test data in the context of manufacturing parameters to understand the impact of formulation and processing on product Quality Attributes
  • Communicates effectively to their supervisor and the wider development team, presenting experimental plans and associated data at project team meetings.
  • Contributes to authorship of high-quality technical reports on product development activities.
  • Adherence to all applicable policies and procedures, including those relating to Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Quality and Compliance, consistent with the role.
  • Perform other duties as assigned consistent with the grade of the role.

 

About Your Skills & Experience

For this role, we’re looking for a candidate who has an effective combination of the following qualifications, skills and experiences:

  •  A-level or equivalent qualifications in science subjects
  • Working towards a relevant MSc or BSc degree (e.g., Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related disciplines)
  • An understanding of formulation relating to drug product development.
  • Desire to undertake hands-on laboratory work.
  • Able to work autonomously to deliver individual tasks; able to organise tasks allocated by supervisor and plan own work to consistently achieve output of high-quality results in a timely manner.
  • Proven competence in standard IT systems e.g., Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, Internet Browsers.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.

Material Scientist (particle characterization)

Position:      Material Scientist (particle characterization) at Resolian

Location:      Discovery Park, Sandwich

Contract:    Full Time

 

Company overview

Resolian are globally recognised for our leadership in science and, as a result, you will have the opportunity to work with some of our industries smartest and most inquisitive people, in a flexible and supportive environment. It is the ideal place to expand your knowledge, take on new responsibilities and make ambitious strides in your career.

 

Responsibilities

  • The candidate will carry out with minimal guidance testing on pharmaceutical samples throughout pharmaceutical program lifecycle, using tools Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD), Thermal analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), or sorption techniques.
  • Use knowledge of solid form properties of pharmaceuticals, such as solid form characterisation of pharmaceutical materials, crystallisation to perform troubleshooting activities, develop and validate analytical methodologies and relevant technologies.
  • Will make use of instrumentation allowing characterization of critical physical properties, such as laser diffraction and microscopy tools, gas adsorption and iGC surface energy analysis. This will include development and validation of methodologies to be used in GMP environment.
  • Interpretation of data package to provide recommendation for supplier / process selection.
  • Work with vendors to ensure the suitable use and maintenance of instrumentation.
  • Works closely with other materials science experts to establish work protocols which can be used to support regulatory documentation (e.g., new drug applications).
  • Acts as an integral part of a specialised team, supporting the assessment of client needs, troubleshooting, and identify the most appropriate analytical tools for analytical activities and the logistics for delivery.
  • Activity contributes to continuous improvement programs and activities.
  • Maintains focus on the timely delivery of activities to agreed project and customer milestones. Plans and reviews work schedules to meet deadlines.
  • Delivery of high-quality data packages
  • Gives presentations, training and advice to fellow colleagues to share learnings and promote increased scientific understanding around the materials science area.
  • Direct interface with the clients.
  • Work closely with Operation and Business Development colleagues to ensure adhesion to the company’s business plan.
  • The successful candidate will have a strong background working in a pharmaceutical laboratory-based role with experience of running and developing physical and solid form characterisation for analysis of potentially complex matrices. Strong knowledge of key instrumentation is necessary.

 

Skills, Education & Qualifications

  • Science graduate with keen interest in the area of materials science, and some experience in relevant scientific discipline associated with pharmaceutical sciences. (essential)
  • cGMP experience (essential)
  • Competent use of critical instrumentation used in pharmaceutical materials science. (essential)
  • Advanced knowledge in Spectroscopy (IR, UV, EDS) (desirable)
  • Proficient in computer use. (essential)
  • Show a flexible attitude to duties. (essential)
  • Ability to multi-task efficiently. (essential)
  • Be able to work in a meticulous manner with close attention to detail. (essential)
  • Be able to work successfully as part of a team. (essential)
  • Be prepared to contribute personally to outstanding customer service. (essential)
  • Be capable of working under pressure and to deadlines. (essential)
  • Clean and tidy work (essential)
  • IT knowledge (desirable)
  • Project management (desirable)

 

If you want to join us to help us deliver our mission of using our scientific capabilities to improve the quality of life of people, then we would love to hear from you.

Full job description and to apply: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4314064090

 

 

Scaling Funding Barriers: Discovery Park at London Life Sciences Week

Join Discovery Park for a sponsored networking evening designed for start-up founders, investors, and other sector stakeholders.

⏰ 17:30 – 20:30

Hosted at Barclays Eagle Labs, Shoreditch, the event will feature a panel discussion led by Discovery Park Ventures, exploring strategies for scaling funding and raising investment in today’s macroeconomic environment.

 

Hear from our panel of founders and operators who’ve navigated uncertain markets and are now thriving:

Lydia Mapstone — BoobyBiome

Antony Odell — EchoPoint Medical

Pedro Correa de Sampaio — Neobe Therapeutics

Rachel Dennison — Oxford Medical Products

Georgia Fleet — Zonova Tech

 

Book your free ticket

New STEM Sixth Form Set to Open at Discovery Park in September 2026

A new science specialist sixth form is set to open next year, based at Sandwich science and innovation campus, Discovery Park.

The new sixth form is named Carbon 6 Academy of Science, ideal for ambitious students aged 16-18 with a passion for science and maths. The academy is designed for those looking to pursue a STEM career, setting students up for success with routes into further education including degree apprenticeships and university study.

The unique location within a world-class science park gives students access to state-of-the-art professional laboratories and research facilities. The first of its kind in the UK to offer a specialist science and maths sixth form embedded within an existing scientific park, the course is also industry-backed, with mentoring and guest lectures from Discovery Park’s onsite companies, including businesses working in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing and more.

With applications opening soon for the first Year 12 intake for September 2026, students can study A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths, with additional opportunities in Further Maths and Extended Project Qualifications.

Designed for students aiming for a career in science-related fields, lessons will be delivered by experienced teachers with specialist science qualifications, ensuring that every student is challenged to reach their full potential. Carbon 6 will have a dedicated student support programme and pastoral care, including tailored preparation for University applications in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science, degree apprenticeships in STEM, as well as research placements and internships. Carbon 6 will have comfortable student common areas, social zones, and canteen facilities, providing a supportive and mature learning environment with an engaged peer group.

Current STEM skills shortages are estimated to cost the UK economy £1.5 billion a year[1], with the Government making high quality STEM education a focus in their 2025 Industrial Strategy. The specialist education delivered by Carbon 6 aligns with the Government’s priority areas, ensuring young people have the skills needed for rewarding careers in high potential sectors, such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences.

 

UK Science Minister, Lord Vallance said:

“Kent’s Discovery Park is home to some of our most innovative businesses, all of which play their own role in driving the breakthroughs and investment that make life sciences such a valuable part of our economy, and our Industrial Strategy.

“Immersing students into this thriving scientific and business community will inspire the next generation of innovators, essential for the future of these industries, and give young people the vital skills for the careers our economy needs.”

 

Carbon 6 Lead, Russell Sauntry, qualified headteacher and co-founder of Amelix Education Resources Limited, commented:

“Our new sixth form is designed to support the South East’s aspiring young scientists, offering a world-class education environment where curiosity meets ambition. With personalised support, a focus on mastery, and hands-on experience in professional laboratories, Carbon 6 students will be prepared – not just for top grades – but for real-world STEM careers. We’re hugely excited to meet prospective students at our open evening in November.”

 

Chris Broom, Head of Business Development at Discovery Park, said:

“The South East is a thriving hub for science, with the highest levels of life sciences employment of any region in the UK. Discovery Park is a key employer in East Kent, so we’re excited to be supporting Carbon 6 with our world-class facilities and industry connections, enabling ambitious young people to develop the expertise needed for fulfilling careers in STEM. This unique education facility will be a centre of excellence for the next generation of doctors, engineers, researchers, and change-makers.”

 

The new free-to-attend state sixth form is open to all students achieving Grade 6+ in science GCSE subjects, with no geographic or catchment requirements. The first cohort of students will be Year 12s starting in September 2026, with the school expanding to encompass Years 12 & 13s from 2027. The sixth form will have smaller class sizes, and interested students are encouraged to make an application via Kent Choices as soon as possible.

 

An open evening is taking place on Thursday 27th November, 18:00 – 21:00. Prospective students are encouraged to register for the open day here.

 

Prospective pupils and their families will also have the chance to visit CoLab at Discovery Park during the open evening — an innovative shared laboratory launched in 2024 by Canterbury Christ Church University and Discovery Park, showcasing how collaboration between academia and industry supports skills development and local innovation.

 

More about Carbon 6 Academy of Science

Carbon 6 Academy of Science is a pioneering sixth form for ambitious young people passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Carbon 6 is located within the world-renowned Discovery Park in Sandwich, Kent, one of Europe’s leading science and innovation hubs.

At Carbon 6, students don’t just prepare for exams, they prepare for their future in STEM. The specialist curriculum in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics is delivered by expert teachers, enriched with hands-on research, real-world projects, and opportunities to publish work. With personalised mentoring and small cohorts, students are stretched to reach their full potential. The result: outstanding outcomes and clear pathways into top universities, competitive degree apprenticeships, and STEM careers worldwide.

Carbon 6 offers an educational experience found nowhere else in the UK, industry backed, research driven, and designed for students who want to live science, not just study it.

Carbon 6 Academy is led by Carbon 6 Education and is a joint venture between Discovery Park and The Amelix Entrepreneurship Academy, a Canterbury-based academy that teaches real entrepreneurial skills, creating genuine businesses and setting pupils up for life. Amelix has demonstrated history in excellent teaching for sixth formers, already working closely with The Canterbury Academy Sixth Form and T6 Turner Sixth Form, based in Folkestone.