Job Description
Head of Research
Location: London
Contract: 12-month fixed term, full-time (maternity leave cover)
About us
At myota, we’re transforming gut health with cutting-edge science and clinically proven innovation. Founded by world-leading microbiome scientists and seasoned operators, and backed by Europe’s top VCs, myota is pioneering a new era of prebiotic fibre products - clinically effective, patented, and built on groundbreaking research from MIT.
With over 50,000 customers and strong adoption among doctors, dietitians and nutritionists, we’re already making a meaningful difference. Our clinical research programme spans partnerships with the NHS and leading universities, placing us at the forefront of evidence-based gut health.
You’ll be joining us at a pivotal moment in our growth - a small, high-impact team on a mission to prevent and reverse the 1 billion cases of chronic disease linked to poor gut health. We’re here to extend healthy lifespans, one gut at a time.
About the Role
We’re looking for a Head of Research to cover a 12-month maternity leave. This role is central to delivering our research strategy, overseeing clinical trial operations, and supporting our B2B/D2C/HCP science communications. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in clinical trials, nutrition, and the gut microbiome, alongside excellent organisational and scientific communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Trial Operations
You will lead the planning, execution, and oversight of myota’s clinical trial program.
* Setting up, managing, and monitoring large-scale human clinical trials
* Developing, editing, and reviewing study protocols, participant materials (PIC/ICF), and supporting documentation with appropriate document provenance
* Developing statistical analysis plans
* Managing trial governance, including ethics submissions and amendments, GCP compliance, regulatory approvals, insurance, reporting, and sponsor oversight
* Overseeing participant consent, enrolment processes, safety monitoring, ongoing risk assessment, and (S)AE management
* Ensuring high-quality data collection on EDC platforms, including auditing and QC processes
* Coordinating sample collection procedures, including compliance with the Human Tissue Act and correct handling and storage of biological samples (including gut microbiome sample handling and analysis)
* Liaising with external laboratories, contractors, and CROs to support analysis and sample processing
* Responsible for ensuring recruitment targets are met, and initiating mitigation strategies to ensure trial deadlines remain on track
* Acting as Lead Study Sponsor, working closely with PIs and clinical trial centres
* Managing large study budgets and monthly reporting
* Familiarity with EFSA/FDA health claims
Research & Development (R&D)
* Lead and contribute to research protocols, scientific reports, and peer-reviewed publications
* Generate research ideas aligned with myota’s scientific and commercial goals
* Manage CRO-led studies and monitor milestones such as participant recruitment and endpoint delivery
* Design and implement study endpoints involving clinical outcomes, questionnaires, or biomarker analysis
* Write or update internal SOPs and research documentation
* Finding new opportunities for grants/funding opportunities and writing/submitting applications
* Presenting at scientific events and conferences, and building academic, industry and NHS partnerships
Scientific Communication
* Communicate myota’s research, clinical evidence, and scientific positioning clearly to prospective B2B clients and partners
* Delivering external talks to a range of audiences/stakeholders
* Creating scientific resources, and producing research graphics or summaries
Consumer & Healthcare Practitioner (HCP) Communication
* Develop educational resources for consumers and HCPs
* Review or contribute to newsletters, email journeys, blogs, and social content
* Provide regulatory oversight on health claims and advertising copy
Experience/Qualifications:
* PhD or Master’s degree in nutrition, gut microbiome, biomedical sciences, or a related field
* Registered dietitian or Association for Nutrition (AfN) Registered Nutritionist
* Experience in microbiome science, clinical nutrition, or functional food product development
* Demonstrated experience managing human clinical trials is a must
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts clearly to different audiences
* Can adapt communication style to different stakeholders, including scientists, clinicians, general public, B2B partners depending on the need/use case
What you’ll get
* Autonomy and real responsibility from Day 1: You’ll be owning and driving key projects from the very start, making a direct impact on our growth and giving you the chance to learn and develop lots of new skills.
* Work directly with the founding team: You’ll collaborate closely with our experienced founders, gaining invaluable insights into the workings of a fast-growing start-up and the wider business landscape.
* Career development: You’ll be part of a rapidly expanding company with significant opportunity for personal and professional growth.
* Dynamic & creative work environment: Join a small, innovative team that values creativity and new ideas, and where your contributions will truly make a difference.
* Central London location: Work from our office in the heart of a vibrant start-up community.
* Top-notch equipment: All the tools you need to succeed, including a laptop, monitor, and any other equipment required.
* Free myota subscription: Stay healthy with a complimentary subscription to our gut health products.