Research Services Team Lead
Location: Cambridge – The Discovery Centre
Contract: Temporary, 12‑month Fixed‑Term Contract
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
* Support provision of a balanced, high‑quality service aligned to customer needs and current/future demand
* Support resolution of customer service issues, recommending and enabling improvements and efficiencies
* Clearly articulate service provision across different stakeholder levels and guide UK / SWE Heads when required
* Ensure the Science Funded Research Team network remains robust, forward‑thinking, and fit for purpose
* Promote services at internal and external forums and conferences
* Act as a key point of contact for all research staff regarding Research Services queries
* Resolve or appropriately escalat[e] complex customer issues
* Support and participate in service audits, GEMBA activities, and continuous improvement initiatives
People Leadership
* Establish and maintain effective leadership of direct reports
* Communicate role expectations clearly and provide constructive, regular feedback
* Ensure all team members have bespoke development plans and stretch objectives
* Foster inclusive and effective teamwork, including collaboration with supplier partners
* Maintain appropriate resourcing levels through effective recruitment in collaboration with Avantor Talent Acquisition
* Coach, mentor, and support team members to achieve high performance
Compliance, Safety & Governance
* Ensure a safe and secure working environment with strong focus on SOPs, Risk Assessments, and documentation accuracy
* Support and enforce policies and procedures
* Ensure activities are delivered in line with agreed schedules, quality standards, and compliance requirements
* Act on and report deviations as required
* Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations of Research & Development labs
* Line‑management experience – essential; ideally 2+ years in people management including recruiting, onboarding, behavioural management and staff development
* Proven MS Office skills and excellent presentation skills
* Customer facing role experience – essential
* Self‑motivated – develops personal growth opportunities
* Coaching and mentoring ability
Education, Skills & Experience
* Scientific background required; degree in Biological or Life Sciences preferred
* 3+ years’ experience working in a BSL‑1 / BSL‑2 laboratory environment
* Strong knowledge of Health & Safety regulations within R&D labs
* Line management experience (minimum 2+ years) including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with proven stakeholder engagement experience
* Strong organisational skills with a solution‑focused mindset
* Customer‑facing experience in a scientific or research environment
* Proficiency in MS Office, including strong presentation skills
* Self‑motivated, flexible, adaptable, and committed to continuous personal development
Desirable
* Strategic and planning experience in an analytical, operational, or leadership support role
* Natural leadership style with the ability to inspire and influence
* Experience working in matrix environments with multiple internal and external stakeholders
* Ability to work autonomously and make confident, strategic decisions
* Understanding of how research services contribute to wider business objectives
* Strong data capture, analysis, and reporting skills (especially Excel)
* Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and change direction effectively
We Offer
* A market‑conform salary aligned with experience
* An attractive benefits package, including private healthcare
* Annual bonus scheme
* 25 days annual leave, plus one additional paid day off for your birthday
* A flexible, trust‑based working culture with no micromanagement
* Exposure to senior stakeholders and the opportunity to influence service strategy and growth
EEO Statement
We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.
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