At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and maintenance of lab IT systems and infrastructure.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge research facility in Oxford focused on sustainable solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of scientific discovery, bridging research with real-world applications.
- Qualifications: PhD or degree in Science, IT, or Engineering; lab management experience required.
- Other info: Must have the right to work in the UK; reference job 134 541 when applying.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
CK Group are recruiting for a Head of Lab Systems and Engineering, to join a growing and exciting research facility in Oxford on a permanent basis. This role will be fully on-site and requires the successful candidate to come from both a science and engineering background as this role has both IT and laboratory crossovers.
The Company: A research-driven organisation led by talented scientists and entrepreneurs, dedicated to creating sustainable solutions for global challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration. This exciting new campus will feature state of art R&D facility, specialised laboratories, oncology clinics and focus on bridging scientific discovery with real-world applications by integrating expertise from various fields, including biomedical science, engineering, and public health.
Location: Oxford
The Role: A key leadership role, the successful candidate will lead the design, implementation and maintenance of the laboratory IT infrastructure (including data systems, networks, and digital platforms). You will drive the engineering strategy, optimise lab processes fostering a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities:
- Partner with research leaders, IT, and external vendors to deliver scalable and future-ready lab technology and infrastructure solutions
- Identify emerging lab technologies and IT innovations to enhance research capabilities and improve operational workflows
- Ensure the maintenance, calibration, and lifecycle management of laboratory equipment and technology to guarantee maximum uptime and performance
- Ensure laboratory systems meet all regulatory, health, safety, and data security standards
Your Background:
- PhD or a Degree in relevant field - i.e. Science, IT or Engineering
- Proven experience managing laboratory operations, engineering systems, and IT infrastructure in a research-intensive or technical environment
- Strong knowledge of laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic notebooks, cloud computing, data storage
- Laboratory experience (wet-lab skills) and understanding of regulatory compliance (e.g., GLP, ISO standards) in laboratory environments
- Proven skills in leadership and managing infrastructure projects
- Understanding of laboratory technology, IT infrastructure, automation platforms, and engineering best practices
- Experience with cybersecurity protocols and vendor relationships
It is essential that applicants hold entitlement to work in the UK. Please quote job reference 134 541 in all correspondence.
If this position isn’t suitable but you are looking for a new role, or if you are interested in seeing what opportunities are out there, head over to our LinkedIn page (cka-group) and follow us to see our latest jobs and company news.
Head of Lab Systems, LIMS employer: CK Group
Contact Detail:
CK Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Lab Systems, LIMS
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of lab systems and engineering. Attend industry conferences or local meetups in Oxford to connect with potential colleagues and leaders in the sector. This can help you gain insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and emerging lab technologies. Being knowledgeable about current innovations will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences and how you've successfully managed infrastructure projects in the past. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s mission and values thoroughly. Understanding their focus on sustainable solutions and interdisciplinary collaboration will allow you to tailor your conversations and show how your background aligns with their goals during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Lab Systems, LIMS
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in both science and engineering. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held, particularly in managing laboratory operations or IT infrastructure.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with the company's mission. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead lab systems and engineering projects.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your knowledge of laboratory information management systems (LIMS), cloud computing, and regulatory compliance. Use examples from your past work to illustrate your expertise in these areas.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at CK Group
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Make sure to highlight your background in both science and engineering. Be prepared to discuss specific laboratory systems you've worked with, particularly LIMS, and how you've implemented or optimised these technologies in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As this role is a key leadership position, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Discuss your approach to fostering a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement within a lab environment.
✨Understand Regulatory Standards
Familiarise yourself with relevant regulatory compliance standards such as GLP and ISO. Be prepared to discuss how you have ensured compliance in previous roles and how you would maintain these standards in the new position.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-world challenges. Think of scenarios where you've had to identify emerging technologies or improve workflows, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.