Principal Medical Writer - Medical Communications

Job description

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:

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

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:

• 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: rare blood disorders (sickle-cell disease), hepatitis, HIV, oncology, right through to OTC brands
• Own project delivery across your accounts, ensuring the highest editorial, scientific, and strategic standards.
• Mentor and develop junior writers, offering coaching, training, and guidance to maintain exceptional quality and support career progression.
• Drive resource planning and workflow discussions for assigned accounts, ensuring efficiency and timely delivery.
• Support team time management, helping junior colleagues prioritize effectively and work collaboratively.

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

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

What We’re Looking For

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

What We Offer

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

Ready to lead, inspire, and make an impact?

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

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

City of London

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

01-03-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English