The company has gone through a difficult transition from science-first culture to a more commercially driven one, which is understandable, but the execution has been rough. Deadlines are frequently tight relative to ever growing project scope, which puts sustained pressure on teams. Internal communication from senior leadership is poor — recent significant structural changes were barely acknowledged, leaving people to piece things together themselves, which erodes trust.
There’s also some disconnect between where money is spent and what employees actually need to feel valued day-to-day. Cost-cutting in areas that directly affect staff (travel, accommodation) sits awkwardly alongside spending on high-visibility initiatives that feel more cosmetic than substantive. It sends a message, even if unintentionally.
The culture that once rewarded rigorous science has quietly suffered. Several strong colleagues have left in recent months, and the ones who remain feel the strain.