At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor a dynamic research team in cutting-edge biotechnology.
- Company: Fast-growing biotech firm focused on RNA technologies and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, equity, and excellent career development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with significant impact on organisational strategy.
- Why this job: Shape the future of medicine while driving scientific excellence and innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in biotech research with strong scientific expertise.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced research leader looking to drive scientific innovation and build high-performing teams within a fast-growing biotechnology company? Proclinical is partnering with an exciting and well-funded biotechnology organisation developing next-generation RNA-based technologies. As part of its continued growth, the company is seeking a Research Director to lead laboratory research operations, develop scientific talent, and deliver ambitious research programmes at the forefront of biotechnology innovation.
This is a rare opportunity to play a central leadership role within a highly collaborative and entrepreneurial environment where scientific excellence, operational rigour and team development are equally valued.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the CSO, the Research Director will oversee a multidisciplinary group of scientists and laboratory professionals, ensuring that research objectives are delivered effectively, efficiently and to the highest scientific standards. The successful candidate will combine strong scientific expertise with exceptional leadership skills, bringing experience of managing research teams, building laboratory capabilities and driving programme delivery within industry.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor and develop a multidisciplinary research team
- Oversee day-to-day laboratory research activities and operational planning
- Drive delivery of scientific programmes against defined objectives and milestones
- Create a high-performance culture focused on collaboration, accountability and innovation
- Manage research resources, budgets, equipment and external partnerships
- Build and optimise laboratory processes, workflows and operating procedures
- Support recruitment, onboarding and development of scientific talent
- Ensure compliance with laboratory quality, safety and documentation standards
- Collaborate with senior leadership to translate strategic priorities into executable research plans
- Identify risks, remove barriers and enable efficient programme execution
About You:
- Significant experience leading scientific or research teams within biotechnology, life sciences or related sectors
- A strong track record of people leadership, coaching and team development
- Experience delivering complex research programmes within commercially focused organisations
- Scientific expertise in areas such as molecular biology, RNA biology, synthetic biology, biotechnology, microbiology or related disciplines
- Experience managing laboratory operations, resource allocation and project prioritisation
- A passion for building high-performing teams and research organisations
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
Desirable Experience
- Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:
- mRNA therapeutics
- RNA technologies
- Cell and gene therapy
- Synthetic biology
- Bioprocess development
- High-throughput biology platforms
- Laboratory automation
- GxP environments and quality systems
- Venture-backed biotechnology companies
- Research scale-up environments
What's on Offer?
- Opportunity to lead a growing research function within an innovative biotechnology company
- Direct influence on scientific strategy, research delivery and team growth
- Highly visible leadership role with significant organisational impact
- Exposure to cutting-edge RNA and biotechnology innovation
- Excellent career development opportunities
- Competitive salary, bonus and benefits package
Why Apply?
This role offers the chance to shape the future direction of a rapidly growing biotechnology organisation while leading talented scientists working on technologies with the potential to transform the future of medicine.
Head of Research and Analysis in Oxford employer: ProClinical
Join a globally recognised biopharmaceutical organisation that prioritises innovation and collaboration in the field of protein science and biologic drug development. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to continuous learning opportunities and be part of a supportive team dedicated to delivering life-changing therapies. Located in a vibrant area, this role not only offers meaningful work but also a dynamic work culture that values your contributions and fosters professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Research and Analysis in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like ProClinical. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like ProClinical!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Research and Analysis in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show ProClinical that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at ProClinical.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that ProClinical does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at ProClinical
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at ProClinical. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into ProClinical's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at ProClinical. This shows your passion for the industry!
