Head of R&D in Reading

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.