Principal Medical Writer - Medical Communications

About Us

At Obsidian, we’re passionate about transforming scientific communications to improve healthcare outcomes for everyone. As a specialist healthcare agency, dedicated to medical & scientific communications, we partner with global healthcare organisations to share knowledge that truly makes a difference.

Our team of >70 academic scientists, strategists, and communications experts deliver cutting-edge solutions across:

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• Medical Affairs
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• Strategic Consultancy
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• Scientific Meetings and Events
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• Medical Education
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• Publications Planning and Delivery
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• Creative and Digital Services
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• Commercial Strategy
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The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Principal Medical Writer to step into a pivotal role, shaping high-impact scientific and commercial projects while mentoring the next generation of talent. As a Principal Medical Writer (PMW), you will:

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• Lead editorial direction for a diverse portfolio of scientific and commercial projects, including complex multi-component deliverables across a range of therapy areas such as: oncology, biosimilars, rare diseases, cardiology, infectious diseases/vaccines, neurology and haematology.
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• Own project delivery across your accounts, ensuring the highest editorial, scientific, and strategic standards.
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• Mentor and develop junior writers, offering coaching, training, and guidance to maintain exceptional quality and support career progression.
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• Drive resource planning and workflow discussions for assigned accounts, ensuring efficiency and timely delivery.
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• Support team time management, helping junior colleagues prioritize effectively and work collaboratively.
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Our expertise will directly influence the success of client projects and strengthen our reputation for scientific excellence—making a real impact on healthcare communications worldwide

What You’ll Do

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• Lead the charge on projects, driving timelines, resources, and flawless delivery.
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• Shape strategy as the go-to therapy area expert, ensuring scientific precision and impact.
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• Craft compelling content that challenges briefs and elevates client expectations.
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• Inspire and mentor junior writers, building a culture of excellence.
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• Own client relationships, instilling confidence and creating long-term partnerships.
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• Champion compliance and editorial quality at every stage.
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• Master budgets and resources, keeping projects on track and profitable.
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• Spot growth opportunities and help win new business with standout proposals.
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• Drive innovation, sharing ideas that improve processes and strengthen the team.
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What We’re Looking For

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• Ideally a degree in biological sciences (BSc/MSc/PhD or equivalent).
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• Proven experience within medical communications agencies, ideally as a Principal Medical Writer or equivalent
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• Strong leadership and mentoring skills with a track record of managing editorial team members.
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• Ability to deliver high-quality scientific content and strategic counsel
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• Strong commercial acumen
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What We Offer

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• Hybrid working: Only 2 anchor days a week in the office from our vibrant London office (just off Fetter Lane, EC4).
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• 25 days’ holiday + bank holidays, plus gifted days at Christmas and your birthday off.
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• AXA Private Healthcare (with family options), Aviva pension scheme, income protection, life assurance.
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• Enhanced parental leave, cycle-to-work scheme, season ticket loan.
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• Bonus schemes and employee referral rewards.
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• Learning and Development: Comprehensive training programmes, annual performance reviews, and opportunities to join working groups.
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• Wellbeing Support: EAP, mental health first aiders, AXA wellbeing calendar, and a dedicated wellbeing room.
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• Social Connection: Regular social events, and a friendly, collaborative culture.
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Ready to lead, inspire, and make an impact?

Join us at Obsidian and help shape the future of scientific communications.