Strategic Scientists Who Build the Foundations of Innovation
At the heart of every life-changing therapy and breakthrough treatment is world-class research. Whether you’re advancing early discovery, refining translational strategies, or driving preclinical development, your success in R&D depends on the calibre of your people – those who ask better questions, generate cleaner data, and move faster from concept to candidate.
Axion connects pioneering life sciences organisations with exceptional R&D professionals across the UK, DACH, Netherlands, Nordics, and other global innovation hubs. We place scientists, research leads, and programme managers who combine deep technical expertise with creativity, resilience, and scientific rigour to drive innovation from the ground up.
Roles we recruit for
We recruit across the R&D spectrum, providing you with access to the minds that fuel scientific advancement:
Discovery & Translational Research
We connect you with visionary scientists who drive early-stage research, from target identification to lead optimisation.
Molecular Biology, Biochemistry & Cell Biology
We deliver experts in core scientific disciplines to advance your research programmes and deepen your understanding of biological processes.
Target Validation & Hit-to-Lead Optimisation
We source scientists specialising in identifying and validating drug targets and optimising lead compounds for therapeutic potential.
Preclinical Pharmacology & Toxicology
We provide you with experts to evaluate drug safety and efficacy in preclinical models, ensuring a strong foundation for clinical development.
Bioanalytical Development
We connect you with scientists to develop and validate assays to support drug discovery and development, ensuring accurate and reliable data.
R&D Programme & Project Management
We deliver leaders to manage R&D projects, ensuring efficient execution, timely delivery, and successful achievement of research goals.
Our candidates ensure:
Experience across small molecules, biologics, cell & gene therapy, RNA platforms, and other cutting-edge modalities, demonstrating their versatility and expertise in diverse research areas.
Familiarity with key lab systems, regulatory standards, and translational endpoints, ensuring they can contribute effectively to your research programmes.
A track record of delivering robust, reproducible science under pressure, demonstrating their ability to thrive in challenging research environments.
The intellectual curiosity and collaboration skills needed to thrive in cross-functional environments, fostering innovation and driving scientific breakthroughs.
The Axion Difference
We Understand the Scientific and Strategic Demands of Modern R&D
Our consultants possess a deep understanding of the complexities of R&D, from early discovery to preclinical development, ensuring we connect you with the talent that aligns with your scientific and strategic objectives.
Our Network Includes High-Performing Researchers Who Aren’t Active on the Job Market
We go beyond traditional recruitment methods to connect you with exceptional researchers who are not actively seeking new roles, providing you with access to a pool of highly qualified and sought-after talent.
We Place for Impact – Whether You’re Scaling After Funding, Replacing Critical Knowledge, or Launching a New Modality
We understand that every hire in R&D is critical. We focus on connecting you with researchers who can make a significant impact on your organisation’s success, whether you’re expanding your team, filling a knowledge gap, or launching a new research programme.
We Speak the Language of Science – and Know How to Assess More Than Just a Publication List
Our consultants possess the scientific expertise to understand your research needs and accurately assess the qualifications and potential of candidates, going beyond surface-level evaluations to identify the best fit for your team.
