9.4

/10

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Job Description

Job Description:

The Waltham Petcare Science Institute is seeking a Systems Biology Lead to define and execute a strategic research agenda that will unlock new insights, transform pet health, and shape the future of the Mars Petcare ecosystem.

This is an opportunity to set the strategic direction for systems biology within Mars Petcare.

You will be at the forefront of scientific discovery, integrating multi-omics data to drive impactful innovations in pet health span, disease prevention, and quality of life improvements.

What We’re Looking For

Scientific Leadership:

  • PhD (or equivalent) in integrative genomics, computational biology, bioinformatics, or a related field.

  • Proven post-PhD leadership in systems biology, bioinformatics, or multi-omics, ideally within biotech, pharma, or a related industry.

  • Strong track record of scientific excellence—publications, patents, or translational research experience.

Technical Expertise:

  • Deep proficiency in multi-omics data integration, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics.

  • Advanced programming skills in R or Python for large-scale biological data analysis.

  • Experience with FAIR data principles, ensuring research outputs are accessible and reusable.

Strategic Influence & Collaboration:

  • Strong line management and mentorship experience, fostering scientific excellence within teams.

  • Ability to influence across organizational levels, aligning research with business priorities.

  • An established presence in the external scientific community, with experience managing strategic collaborations.

What You Can Expect from Mars:

  • Impact-Driven Work – Be part of a company that is shaping the future of pet health and well-being.

  • World-Class Learning – Access industry-leading training, including Mars University, to accelerate your professional growth.

  • Competitive Rewards – Enjoy a strong salary package, company bonus, and comprehensive benefits.

  • Innovation at Scale – Work in a globally recognized research institute, driving meaningful change in pet healthcare.

At Mars, we believe that science should make a difference—not just in the lab, but in the lives of pets and the people who love them. If you’re ready to lead the next wave of systems biology innovation, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and shape the future of pet health with Mars!

#LI-SS1

Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.

Company benefits

Open to part-time employees
Open to job sharing
Open to compressed hours
Sabbaticals
Enhanced maternity leave – 26 weeks at 90% pay
Enhanced paternity leave – 26 weeks at 90% pay
24 days annual leave + bank holidays
“Pawternity” leave
Pregnancy loss leave
Bank holiday swaps
Shared parental leave
Adoption leave
Family health insurance
Pregnancy support
Neo-natal leave
Faith rooms
Meditation space
Dog friendly office
Dog friendly co-working space
Annual bonus
Employee discounts
Cinema discounts
Referral bonus
Joining bonus
Cycle to work scheme
Electric Car Salary Sacrifice
Enhanced pension match/contribution
Theme park discounts
Lunch and learns
In house training
LinkedIn learning license
Studying sabbaticals
Open to part time work for some roles

Working at Mars UK

Company employees

4,000 In the UK

Gender diversity (male:female)

57:43

Currently Hiring Countries

Denmark

France

Poland

United Kingdom

United States

Office Locations

Awards & Achievements

1st – Family Friendly

1st – Family Friendly

Flexa awards 2025
2nd – Pet Friendly

2nd – Pet Friendly

Flexa awards 2025
Flexible

Flexible

Flexa awards 2025
Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and Inclusion

Flexa awards 2025
Work-Life Balance

Work-Life Balance

Flexa awards 2025
Career Progression

Career Progression

Flexa awards 2025
Culture

Culture

Flexa awards 2025
Benefits

Benefits

Flexa awards 2025
1st – Large companies

1st – Large companies

Flexa100 2024
Consumer Goods

Consumer Goods

Industry awards 2023
3rd – Large companies

3rd – Large companies

Flexa100 2023
Retail & Ecommerce

Retail & Ecommerce

Industry awards 2022