Research Director

Lead Scientific Innovation in Next-Generation RNA Technologies

Join a well-funded biotechnology organisation dedicated to developing next-generation RNA-based technologies. This role offers a rare opportunity to play a central leadership position within a highly collaborative and entrepreneurial environment. Here, scientific excellence, operational rigour, and team development are equally valued. You will lead laboratory research operations, develop scientific talent, and deliver ambitious research programmes at the forefront of biotechnology innovation.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the Chief Scientific Officer, you will oversee a multidisciplinary group of scientists and laboratory professionals. Your primary focus will be ensuring that research objectives are delivered effectively, efficiently, and to the highest scientific standards. This position combines strong scientific expertise with exceptional leadership skills, requiring experience in managing research teams, building laboratory capabilities, and driving programme delivery within an industry setting.

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.