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.
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