Automation Group Lead

Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading R&D organization in Oxfordshire seeks an Automation Group Lead to oversee the development and implementation of automated workflows. This hands-on leadership role requires strong Python programming skills and experience in lab automation. You will lead a team, manage automation projects, and collaborate with various scientific teams to innovate lab processes. Ideal candidates should possess a relevant degree and significant experience in the field, along with the ability to influence and drive strategic initiatives.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership or mentoring experience in automation or scientific settings.
• Strong background in laboratory automation with hands-on experience.
• Advanced Python programming skills required; knowledge of C# is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the R&D Automation team with technical direction.
• Own delivery of laboratory automation systems from concept to validation.
• Collaborate with internal teams to implement hardware/software upgrades.

Skills

Leadership in automation

Python programming

Problem-solving

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline

PhD with 2+ years’ experience or MSc/BSc with 8+ years in lab automation

Tools

Hamilton STAR

LIMS / ELN

Robotic platforms

Job description

Automation Group Lead – R&D Laboratory Automation

Oxfordshire | Competitive salary | Full-time

Are you an experienced automation expert ready to lead a growing team at the forefront of lab innovation? We’re hiring an Automation Group Lead for a pioneering R&D environment in Oxfordshire. In this role, you’ll lead the development and implementation of automated high-throughput workflows, drive cross‑functional collaboration, and mentor scientists delivering cutting‑edge lab automation solutions. This is a hands‑on leadership position that combines technical expertise, people leadership, and strategic influence across automation projects. Strong Python programming skills are essential. Candidates currently operating at Senior Scientist level but ready for a step up are encouraged to apply.

About the Role

As the Automation Group Lead, you’ll oversee the design, integration, and deployment of fully automated workflows across analytical disciplines including molecular biology, cell‑based assays, chromatography, and flow cytometry. Your leadership will drive automation strategy, system performance, and collaboration across multidisciplinary R&D teams such as Cell Sciences, Media Development, Analytics, and Digital Biology.

You’ll work closely with stakeholders to translate scientific needs into robust automation solutions, while developing team capabilities and ensuring operational excellence across platforms and technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the R&D Automation team, providing technical direction, mentoring, and performance development.
• Own the delivery of end‑to‑end laboratory automation systems, from concept to deployment and validation.
• Oversee the programming, optimisation, and troubleshooting of automated liquid handling systems (e.g., Hamilton STAR).
• Collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to implement hardware / software upgrades, resolve technical issues, and scale automation solutions.
• Ensure robust documentation, knowledge sharing, and user training to support seamless transition to automated processes.
• Work with data and digital teams to automate data flows and ensure compliance with data integrity requirements.
• Contribute to strategic planning for automation infrastructure, team development, and new technology adoption.

About You

We’re looking for a confident automation specialist and team leader who is passionate about transforming manual lab processes into scalable, data‑driven workflows.

You should have :

• Demonstrated leadership or mentoring experience within an automation or scientific environment.
• A strong background in laboratory automation, with hands‑on experience developing automated workflows for complex assays.
• Advanced programming skills in Python (required); knowledge of Hamilton VENUS and / or C# is a strong advantage.
• Experience in managing or supporting integrated laboratory systems including scheduling software, LIMS / ELN, or robotic platforms.
• Strong problem‑solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively in a fast‑paced R&D setting.

Qualifications

• Degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline.
• PhD with 2+ years’ relevant experience, or MSc / BSc with 8+ years in lab automation.
• Experience in biotech, pharmaceutical, or related scientific industries preferred.

Apply Now

This is a fantastic opportunity to lead a high‑impact automation function within a collaborative and innovation‑driven R&D environment. If you're excited to take the next step in your career and shape the future of lab automation, we’d love to hear from you.