Lab Manager

We’re looking for a proactive and experienced Laboratory Manager to join our growing team at Magnitude Biosciences. This is a great opportunity for someone with a strong background in leading scientific teams within a commercial CRO or research environment, who enjoys ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, on time, and to the highest standard. 

The successful candidate will play a key role in overseeing the day-to-day running of our laboratory, working closely with the Management team to support the delivery of client projects and internal R&D. You’ll help maintain a productive and organised lab environment, aligned with our ambitious growth plans. 

This is a varied role that blends operational oversight with hands-on coordination—ideal for someone who enjoys keeping multiple moving parts aligned. You’ll manage timelines, support day-to-day lab activities, and contribute to the ongoing development and growth of our assay services. 

About Magnitude Biosciences 

Magnitude Biosciences is an innovative contract research organisation (CRO) that uses the C. elegans model organism to offer automated, high-throughput in vivo screening services for pharmaceutical, biotech, and nutraceutical companies. Our proprietary WormGazer® platform delivers scalable, cost-effective, and real-time health data through fully automated assays, transforming the way early-stage drug discovery and development are conducted. By offering rapid, data-rich screening, we allow our clients to make faster, more informed decisions in drug development.   

At Magnitude Biosciences you will enjoy a good work-life balance, supportive team and the opportunity to grow your skills and responsibilities in new areas. The role is full time, on site in NETPark, Sedgefield, County Durham, UK.  

Main Responsibilities 

The post holder will report to our Head of Operations and will work closely with our Senior Management Team. 

  • Proactive and efficient management of lab resources (both scientists and WormGazer), to deliver all Client and internal R&D projects 
  • Lead and support a team of laboratory scientists, driving monthly KPIs  
  • Have accountability for all laboratory targets, functions and procedures 
  • Drive continuous improvements and implement automated procedures to increase streamlining of assays 
  • Provide decisive leadership and steer trouble-shooting for projects  
  • Ensure all lab work meets company QMS standards 
  • Ensure the transfer of R&D projects into newly rolled out commercial assays are successful, in collaboration with the Commercial Innovation Manager, Chief Technical Officer and Commercial team.

Essential Criteria 

  • Qualification (B.Sc/M.Sc) in a life sciences related degree  
  • 3+ years’ experience in a laboratory position, preferably within industry. 
  • 2+ years’ demonstrated prior experience in managing teams  
  • Experience managing delivery of projects, including experience managing both research and operational delivery scientists. 
  • Detail-oriented with strong planning and coordination abilities 
  • Clear and confident communicator, both in writing and in person 
  • Adaptable and flexible in response to changing priorities 
  • Able to think critically and solve problems effectively 
  • Ability to drive and motivate a team       
  • Strong work ethic and commitment  
  • Applicants must have the right to work in the UK as we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time. 

Desirable criteria       

  • Knowledge of assay development, validation and commercial roll out 
  • Broad knowledge of life sciences CROs 
  • Molecular biology knowledge 
  • Experience in C. elegans or other animal models 
  • Experience in the following sectors pharmaceutical, biotechnology, ageing or health and nutrition 
  • Familiarity with process improvement methodologies (e.g. Six Sigma, Lean, or similar) 

Interviews 

A shortlist of applicants will first be interviewed by Zoom. Candidates that impress at this stage will be invited on site for a face-to-face interview. 

Hours: 35 per week 

The salary will be appropriate for the skills and experience of the successful candidate.  

We carefully review all applications and will contact shortlisted candidates for the next stages of the recruitment process. If you have not heard from us by 31st May 2025, please kindly assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion. 

Application 

Please send your application including a statement of why you are suitable for the job, how you fit the job criteria and your CV to sara@magnitudebiosciences.com 

Any questions, please email sara@magnitudebiosciences.com 

Find out more about the company at https://magnitudebiosciences.com 

Deadline: 11th May 2025 

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