Company: Avantor
Location: Milton
Posted: April 5th, 2026
Research Services Team Lead
Location: Cambridge – The Discovery Centre
Contract: Temporary, 12‑month Fixed‑Term Contract
We are currently seeking a Research Services Team Lead to support the management of the Avantor Research Services Team at our client’s site Discovery Centre in Cambridge.
This role plays a critical part in ensuring the effective delivery of science‑funded services. You will work closely with the Research Services Manager to support operational excellence, people leadership, compliance, and future service growth. The role carries significant people‑management responsibility and requires a strong understanding of the Avantor Supplier Partner model, along with proven experience leading teams within a laboratory or research environment.
Support provision of a balanced, high‑quality service aligned to customer needs and current/future demand
Support resolution of customer service issues, recommending and enabling improvements and efficiencies
Clearly articulate service provision across different stakeholder levels and guide UK / SWE Heads when required
Ensure the Science Funded Research Team network remains robust, forward‑thinking, and fit for purpose
Promote services at internal and external forums and conferences
Act as a key point of contact for all research staff regarding Research Services queries
Resolve or appropriately elevate complex customer issues
Support and participate in service audits, GEMBA activities, and continuous improvement initiatives
Establish and maintain effective leadership of direct reports
Communicate role expectations clearly and provide constructive, regular feedback
Ensure all team members have bespoke development plans and stretch objectives
Foster inclusive and effective teamwork, including collaboration with supplier partners
Maintain appropriate resourcing levels through effective recruitment in collaboration with Avantor Talent Acquisition
Coach, mentor, and support team members to achieve high performance
Ensure a safe and secure working environment with strong focus on SOPs, Risk Assessments, and documentation accuracy
Support and enforce policies and procedures
Ensure activities are delivered in line with agreed schedules, quality standards, and compliance requirements
Act on and report deviations as required
Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations of Research & Development labs
Line‑management experience – essential; ideally 2+ years in people management including recruiting, onboarding, behavioural management and staff development
Proven MS Office skills and excellent presentation skills
Customer facing role experience – essential
Self‑motivated – develops personal growth opportunities
Coaching and mentoring ability
Scientific background required; degree in Biological or Life Sciences preferred
3+ years’ experience working in a BSL‑1 / BSL‑2 laboratory environment
Strong knowledge of Health & Safety regulations within R&D labs
Line management experience (minimum 2+ years) including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with proven stakeholder engagement experience
Strong organisational skills with a solution‑focused mindset
Customer‑facing experience in a scientific or research environment
Proficiency in MS Office, including strong presentation skills
Self‑motivated, flexible, adaptable, and committed to continuous personal development
Strategic and planning experience in an analytical, operational, or leadership support role
Natural leadership style with the ability to inspire and influence
Experience working in matrix environments with multiple internal and external stakeholders
Ability to work autonomously and make confident, strategic decisions
Understanding of how research services contribute to wider business objectives
Strong data capture, analysis, and reporting skills (especially Excel)
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and change direction effectively
This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a visible leadership role embedded within one of the world’s leading life sciences organisations. You’ll work in a highly collaborative research environment, supporting critical scientific activity while shaping the future of research services delivery.
A market‑conform salary aligned with experience
An attractive benefits package, including private healthcare
Annual bonus scheme
25 days annual leave, plus one additional paid day off for your birthday
A flexible, trust‑based working culture with no micromanagement
Exposure to senior stakeholders and the opportunity to influence service strategy and growth
This role is ideal for a motivated people leader who enjoys challenge, responsibility, and making a tangible impact in a science‑led environment.
Interested? Let`s apply! #LI-Onsite
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life‑changing science.
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world.
Apply today!
We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at recruiting@avantorsciences.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.
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