Research Manager (Engineering) - £60k - ID41150

Are you excited by the idea of leading innovation at the crossroads of science and technology? Do you want to steer research that shapes advanced products used in labs and research facilities around the world? Ready to join a growing, mission-driven organisation where your ideas will truly make a difference?

Help Lead the Next Chapter of Innovation

Our client, an agile and ambitious company working at the forefront of scientific and engineering advancement, is seeking a Research Manager to drive forward their expanding R&D efforts. This is a rare opportunity to take over from a pivotal team member who helped build the product portfolio from the ground up. You will inherit a well-established R&D function with a strong reputation and the scope to shape the future roadmap, all within a company that places technical excellence, product reliability, and end-user impact at the heart of its work.

Why This Role is Great

• Lead cross-disciplinary R&D projects spanning physics, chemistry, engineering, and software with varied, rewarding challenges.
• Shape the development of complex instrumentation and precision technologies used globally in scientific environments.
• Work closely with end users to understand real-world applications and help translate feedback into product improvements.
• Drive continuous innovation by guiding the design, prototyping, testing, and refinement of advanced tools and systems.
• Champion quality through rigorous testing, implementation of best practices, and collaboration with production teams.
• Collaborate with external partners to expand the potential of proprietary technologies in novel applications.
• Mentor a small but high-performing team, supporting growth and professional development in a positive and forward-thinking environment.

About You

You are someone who thrives in a research-rich environment where curiosity meets precision. You enjoy seeing ideas go from concept to reality and value both strategic thinking and hands-on experimentation. You might have:

• A strong background in physical sciences or engineering, with practical knowledge of topics like fluid systems, heat transfer, materials, or applied physics.
• Experience leading technical research projects, ideally involving complex products, systems, or instruments.
• Familiarity with data analysis, experimental design, and simulation tools.
• Competence in technical computing tools or coding environments such as Python, MATLAB, CAD, or Linux.
• A collaborative mindset and strong communication skills, with confidence in presenting ideas and findings to varied audiences.
• Experience working in regulated and high-quality environments with a focus on continuous improvement.

You do not need experience in any one specific industry. If you have worked in R&D within high-tech manufacturing, scientific tools, automation, med-tech, or other precision-based sectors, or have transferable expertise, we want to hear from you.

The Benefits

• Work in a forward-thinking company with a real sense of mission.
• Help deliver innovative tools that empower scientific discovery.
• Enjoy a collaborative culture that values ideas, learning, and diversity.
• Flexible working options and a strong focus on wellbeing.
• Ongoing career development in a growing and successful business.

Diversity and Inclusion

We and our client are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities. If you are excited by this role but do not meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your unique experience could be exactly what is needed.

Apply Today

Step into a role where your work will shape tools used by scientists across the world. Send us your CV and a short note telling us what draws you to this opportunity.