Overview
Head of Microbiology role at Quantum Pharmaceutical Ltd. Part of the Aseptic Services expansion to manufacture life-saving cancer chemotherapy drugs. The position is based at Quantum House, Hobson Industrial Estate, Burnopfield (Postcode NE16 6EA). Type of contract: Permanent. Posted Date: Monday, September 1, 2025. Closing Date: Monday, September 29, 2025.
Responsibilities
* Leadership and Team Management: Lead, develop, and mentor the microbiology team, fostering a culture of technical excellence, compliance, and continuous improvement. Define roles, set objectives, and conduct performance evaluations to build and maintain a high-performing team.
* Microbiological Operations: Oversee all microbiological testing (including environmental monitoring and microbial identification), ensuring GMP and regulatory compliance; develop, implement, and review testing protocols to ensure product sterility; ensure timely release of test results and maintenance of the Quality Management System; address deviations or out-of-specification results; act as system manager for LIMS in line with GMP/GLP and system validation.
* Contamination Control Strategy: Develop and lead the site’s contamination control strategy for sterile medicines production; oversee validation of aseptic processes, employees, and cleaning/disinfection practices; collaborate on root cause analyses, investigations, and CAPAs for microbiological issues.
* Quality and Compliance: Ensure microbiological testing and operations comply with GMP, quality policies, and pharmacopeial requirements; host and support regulatory and client audits and implement robust CAPAs; stay up to date with industry trends and regulatory guidance.
* Technical Expertise and Support: Provide microbiological expertise to support manufacturing, product development, validation studies, and risk assessments; lead investigations into contamination and act as SME during regulatory inspections and customer audits.
What We Are Looking For
* A degree in microbiology (minimum).
* At least 10 years of microbiology experience with progressive responsibility and leadership experience; pharmaceutical experience with Specials preferred.
* Knowledge of quality management systems (GMP, HACCP, CATO, ISO) and regulatory requirements relevant to microbiology.
* Proficiency with microbiological testing equipment and software; in-depth knowledge of microbiological principles, techniques, and methodologies.
* Experience leading efficiency improvements and delivering timely, cost-effective technical services; excellent communication and collaboration skills; proven ability to lead people and drive performance.
Personal Attributes
* Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to supervise a team of microbiologists.
* Analytical and problem-solving abilities; effective communication with stakeholders; attention to detail and accuracy in testing.
* Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams, adapt to changing priorities, and manage multiple deadlines; strong organizational and time-management skills; continuous learning mindset.
* Ability to deliver a well-governed, high-quality service with IT opportunities minimised risks; experience in recruiting, motivating, and developing staff; ability to drive a new working culture across compounding sites.
Benefits Of Working With Us
* Salary negotiable depending on experience
* Pension
* Free food and drink at work
* Strong Social Committee
Please note: All applicants are subject to a DBS check along with two references.
Join us at Quantum and be part of something bigger – apply today to start your career journey with us!
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