Head of R&D
Molecular Biology & Bioprocess Development
Berkshire I £Competitive I Hybrid
We're recruiting for a hands-on Head of R&D to lead a small and collaborative research team within an innovative life sciences environment. This role combines scientific leadership with day-to-day involvement in the laboratory, focusing on the development of molecular biology assays and bacterial bioprocesses. Working closely with the Managing Director and Aqua R&D Director, you'll help shape the direction of R&D activities while supporting and developing a growing team.
This opportunity would suit an experienced Senior Scientist or Team Lead looking to take the next step into a broader leadership role, while remaining technically involved and continuing to drive innovation.
The Role
As Head of R&D, you'll oversee the day-to-day operation of a small Molecular Biology and Microbiology team, providing technical leadership and project direction while remaining actively involved in laboratory work. You'll collaborate with colleagues across global R&D teams, sharing technologies and supporting the continued development of new assays and processes.
With one experienced Senior Scientist and a Junior R&D Scientist in the team, you'll have the opportunity to mentor colleagues, support project delivery and help shape future R&D capability.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and coordinate R&D activities across molecular biology and microbial development projects.
Develop and optimise molecular biology assays, including qPCR techniques and Nanopore sequencing applications.
Drive the development and optimisation of bacterial bioprocesses and bioreactor fermentation systems.
Manage multiple projects and support colleagues in the successful delivery of their own work.
Provide technical leadership and coaching to team members.
Work closely with the Managing Director and Aqua R&D Director to support R&D strategy and continuous improvement.
Build strong relationships with wider global R&D teams to facilitate knowledge sharing and technology transfer.
Analyse data, prepare reports and communicate findings to stakeholders.
Maintain high standards of quality, documentation and scientific excellence.
Travel within the UK and internationally to collaborate with other sites and teams.
About You
We're interested in hearing from scientists with:
A postgraduate qualification in Biological Sciences or a related discipline.
Industrial experience in microbiology, biotechnology or molecular biology.
Strong experience developing molecular biology assays, including qPCR.
Experience using Nanopore sequencing technologies.
Strong expertise in bacterial bioprocess development and bioreactor fermentation processes.
Excellent project management and organisational skills.
Strong communication and collaboration skills.
A passion for developing others and creating a positive team culture.
Previous people leadership, mentoring or supervisory experience would be advantageous, although this role would also suit a Senior Scientist or Team Lead ready to step into their first formal management position.
Salary: £Competitive (Depending on experience)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 37.5 hours per week (approximately 08:00-16:00)
Travel: UK and international travel to other global R&D sites
Working Pattern: Primarily laboratory based - 1-2 days from home available
Interested?
If you're an experienced scientist looking for the opportunity to step into a broader leadership role without losing the hands-on element of R&D, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now for a confidential discussion