Head of Lab Systems and Engineering

CK Group; Oxford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research-driven organization in Oxford seeks a Head of Lab Systems and Engineering. This pivotal role involves overseeing laboratory IT infrastructure and engineering strategy, ensuring operational excellence and compliance with regulatory standards. The successful candidate will collaborate with various stakeholders to enhance research capabilities and maintain cutting-edge lab technology.

Qualifications

• Significant experience managing laboratory operations and IT infrastructure.
• Understanding of regulatory compliance in laboratory environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and maintenance of laboratory IT infrastructure.
• Partner with research leaders and vendors for lab technology solutions.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Cybersecurity

Education

Relevant scientific and IT degree

Tools

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Cloud Computing

Data Storage

Job description

CK Group are recruiting for a Head of Lab Systems and Engineering, to join a growing and exciting research facility in Oxford, on a permanent basis. This role will be fully on-site and requires the successful candidate to come from both a science and engineering background, as this role has both IT and laboratory crossovers.


The Company:

A research-driven organisation led by talented scientists and entrepreneurs, dedicated to creating sustainable solutions for global challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration. This exciting new campus will feature state of art R&D facility, specialised laboratories, oncology clinics and focus on bridging scientific discovery with real-world applications by integrating expertise from various fields, including biomedical science, engineering, and public health.


Location:

Oxford


The Role:

A key leadership role, the successful candidate will lead the design, implementation and maintenance of the laboratory IT infrastructure (including data systems, networks, and digital platforms). You will drive the engineering strategy, optimise lab processes fostering a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement.


Responsibilities:

• Partner with research leaders, IT, and external vendors to deliver scalable and future-ready lab technology and infrastructure solutions.
• Identify emerging lab technologies and IT innovations to enhance research capabilities and improve operational workflows.
• Ensure the maintenance, calibration, and lifecycle management of laboratory equipment and technology to guarantee maximum uptime and performance.
• Ensure laboratory systems meet all regulatory, health, safety, and data security standards.

Your Background:

• Degree qualified in relevant scientific and IT degree.
• Significant experience managing laboratory operations, engineering systems, and IT infrastructure in a research-intensive or technical environment.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic notebooks, cloud computing, data storage.
• Laboratory experience (wet-lab skills) and understanding of regulatory compliance (e.g., GLP, ISO standards) in laboratory environments.
• Proven skills in leadership and managing infrastructure projects.
• Understanding of laboratory technology, IT infrastructure, automation platforms, and engineering best practices.
• Experience with cybersecurity protocols and vendor relationships.

Apply:

It is essential that applicants hold entitlement to work in the UK. Please quote job reference 134 541 in all correspondence.

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