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:

• 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: oncology, biosimilars, rare diseases, cardiology, infectious diseases/vaccines, neurology and haematology.
• 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.