EPP Ltd - Synthetic Organic Chemist

Edinburgh Pharmaceutical Processes (EPP Ltd) is an independently owned GLP Contract Research Organisation, based in Midlothian Science Zone, with over 30 years’ experience in 5-Batch analysis, Physico-chemical testing, Research & Development, and Custom Synthesis of analytical reference standards.

Dr Joe Watson is a Synthetic Organic Chemist with EPP Ltd and enjoys work in the lab and 'in the zone' as the rural location has added advantages

Midlothian Science Zone talks with Dr Joe Watson, Synthetic Organic Chemist

Dr Joe Watson studied in Chemistry at Northumbria University, followed by a PhD and Post Doctorate in Organic Synthesis. Joe has been working with EPP Ltd as a Synthetic Organic Chemist since early 2023.

What has been your career path so far?

I'm from Hartlepool and went to Northumbria University to read Chemistry followed by a placement at an Analytical Company in the northeast. After briefly working with GSK I then did a PhD and Post Doctorate in Organic Synthesis at Northumbria University.

I chose Edinburgh as the place to live for its green space and accessibility to the countryside and was lucky enough to secure my current postion with EPP Ltd. I joined the company in early 2023 so have been working here for just over a year.

What is the main purpose of EPP Ltd and what is your role?

Edinburgh Pharmaceutical Processes (EPP) is an independently owned GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) Contract Research Organisation supporting the agrochemical, pharmaceutical, and industrial chemical sectors.

EPP provide GLP analytical and physico-chemical testing in accordance with worldwide regulations such as OECD and OCSPP (OPPTS).

The company's core areas of work are Analytical and Screening including Physico-Chemical Testing, REACH and 5-Batch Analysis, as well as Process Research & Development including Custom Synthesis services.

I'm based within R&D that conducts the custom synthesis of analytical reference standards, and part of a highly experienced team that can produce unique and rare organic molecules including hard-to-find impurities and metabolites related to active ingredients. We typically work on a scale ranging from milligrams to kilograms and can, if required, certify the standards to GLP.

Tell us more about your day-to-day tasks and the aspects you enjoy most.

My role is lab-based involving synthesis, which is the area of chemistry that I find most interesting, and purification which could be described as 'glorified cooking'. The cross over is close for anyone who has read the book Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus!

What experience have you gained in this work and what do you hope to do in the future?

I had a paid Post Doctorate role, however this is my first salary paid job in the industry that is outwith academia.

I find this position provides me with a better work/life balance than in academia so I'm enjoying the freedom of regular hours and in a good company to work with. It is certainly less stressful than in academia, particularly with the uncertainty of applying for funding etc.

What do you enjoy most about working within Midlothian Science Zone?

I had been used to life in the concrete jungle which is Newcastle and as a keen trail runner I love the outdoor space 'in the zone' and the facilities including a 5km loop so I can run at the end of the day for some downtime!

I hadn’t heard of Midlothian Science Zone prior to working here but do know of the connection with The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

For further information, please contact:
EPP Ltd
Sharon McCluskie 
Administration Manager
Bush Estate, Bush Loan
Midlothian, EH26 0PH

e: enquiries@eppltd.com
t: +44 (0)131 285 0566