Biotechnology Company

Sourcing a Senior Data Scientist for a Cambridge Hybrid Role

The Challenge

Our client needed to hire a Senior Data Scientist for their Cambridge team.

This was a niche role. The person needed strong data science and machine learning skills, as well as sufficient biotech or life sciences understanding to work with complex biological data, including genomic, assay, and imaging data.

That made the search hard. In the Cambridge market, strong candidates are in demand, and many are not actively applying for jobs. The role needed to reach the right people directly, rather than relying on ads and inbound applications.

The Solution

Xist4 built a focused search based on market realities.

First, we worked with the client to sharpen the role’s positioning. We clarified the opportunity, highlighted the value of the work, and ensured the hybrid setup and broader opportunity were easy to understand.

We then ran a rigorous direct search to identify passive candidates with the right mix of skills and sector fit. This included people with strong data science backgrounds and relevant experience in biotech, life sciences, genomics, or other complex scientific data environments.

Alongside this, we widened reach through specialist networks and targeted channels more suited to a niche search of this kind.

We also spoke to candidates in depth, assessing technical strength, problem-solving, communication, motivation, and fit for a science-led team. Throughout the process, we kept the candidate journey clear and well-managed, helping maintain interest and momentum.

The Result

Xist4 delivered a strong shortlist of qualified candidates within four weeks.

The client hired a Senior Data Scientist with strong machine learning capability and relevant experience working with complex biological data.

The new hire settled in quickly and started adding value to the team’s research and innovation work.