About the Role
We are currently seeking a Research Services Team Lead to support the management of the Avantor Research Services Team at our client`s site Discovery Centre in Cambridge.
This role plays a critical part in ensuring the effective delivery of science‑funded services. You will work closely with the Research Services Manager to support operational excellence, people leadership, compliance, and future service growth. The role carries significant people‑management responsibility and requires a strong understanding of the Avantor Supplier Partner model, along with proven experience leading teams within a laboratory or research environment.
Key Responsibilities
Service & Operations
1. Support provision of a balanced, high‑quality service aligned to customer needs and current/future demand
2. Support resolution of customer service issues, recommending and enabling improvements and efficiencies
3. Clearly articulate service provision across different stakeholder levels and guide UK / SWE Heads when required
4. Ensure the Science Funded Research Team network remains robust, forward‑thinking, and fit for purpose
5. Promote services at internal and external forums and conferences
6. Act as a key point of contact for all research staff regarding Research Services queries
7. Resolve or appropriately escalate complex customer issues
8. Support and participate in service audits, GEMBA activities, and continuous improvement initiatives
People Leadership
9. Establish and maintain effective leadership of direct reports
10. Communicate role expectations clearly and provide constructive, regular feedback
11. Ensure all team members have bespoke development plans and stretch objectives
12. Foster inclusive and effective teamwork, including collaboration with supplier partners
13. Maintain appropriate resourcing levels through effective recruitment in collaboration with Avantor Talent Acquisition
14. Coach, mentor, and support team members to achieve high performance
Compliance, Safety & Governance
15. Ensure a safe and secure working environment with strong focus on SOPs, Risk Assessments, and documentation accuracy
16. Support and enforce policies and procedures
17. Ensure activities are delivered in line with agreed schedules, quality standards, and compliance requirements
18. Act on and report deviations as required
19. Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations of Research & Development labs
20. Line-management experience – essential; ideally 2+ years in people management including recruiting, onboarding, behavioural management and staff development
21. Proven MS Office skills and excellent presentation skills
22. Customer facing role experience – essential
23. Self- motivated – develops personal growth opportunities
24. Coaching and mentoring ability
Education, Skills & Experience
Essential
25. Scientific background required; degree in Biological or Life Sciences preferred
26. 3+ years’ experience working in a BSL‑1 / BSL‑2 laboratory environment
27. Strong knowledge of Health & Safety regulations within R&D labs
28. Line management experience (minimum 2+ years) including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development
29. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with proven stakeholder engagement experience
30. Strong organisational skills with a solution‑focused mindset
31. Customer‑facing experience in a scientific or research environment
32. Proficiency in MS Office, including strong presentation skills
33. Self‑motivated, flexible, adaptable, and committed to continuous personal development
Desirable
34. Strategic and planning experience in an analytical, operational, or leadership support role
35. Natural leadership style with the ability to inspire and influence
36. Experience working in matrix environments with multiple internal and external stakeholders
37. Ability to work autonomously and make confident, strategic decisions
38. Understanding of how research services contribute to wider business objectives
39. Strong data capture, analysis, and reporting skills (especially Excel)
40. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and change direction effectively
Why Join Us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a visible leadership role embedded within one of the world’s leading life sciences organisations. You’ll work in a highly collaborative research environment, supporting critical scientific activity while shaping the future of research services delivery.
We offer:
41. A market‑conform salary aligned with experience
42. An attractive benefits package, including private healthcare
43. Annual bonus scheme
44. 25 days annual leave, plus one additional paid day off for your birthday
45. A flexible, trust‑based working culture with no micromanagement
46. Exposure to senior stakeholders and the opportunity to influence service strategy and growth
This role is ideal for a motivated people leader who enjoys challenge, responsibility, and making a tangible impact in a science‑led environment.
Interested? Let`s apply!
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Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Why Avantor?
Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world. Apply today!
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