Head of Reagent Development

LEX Diagnostics Limited; Bristol; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading diagnostics company seeks a Head of Reagent Development to innovate and lead reagent development for the LEX VELO platform. This role merges hands-on lab work with strategic input, team leadership, and project management in a rapid growth environment. Ideal candidates will have a PhD and substantial experience in qPCR reagents and lyophilisation.

Benefits

Employer pension contribution of 10% (+3% personal contribution)

Private Medical Insurance

Life insurance

25 days’ annual holiday plus bank holidays

Discounts and memberships to local sports facilities and the theatre

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in molecular biology, biochemistry or related field.
• Experience in developing qPCR/RT-qPCR reagents.
• Hands-on experience with lyophilisation processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, optimisation, validation, and transfer to manufacture of reagent systems.
• Manage and grow a team of molecular biologists and biochemists.
• Balance lab work with strategic project management.

Skills

Leadership

Technical Expertise

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology or Biochemistry

Job description

We’re developing diagnostics at the speed of life. Want to lead the team building the reagents that make it possible?

At LEX Diagnostics, we’re pioneering ultra-fast PCR at the point of care bringing lab standard performance to GPs, emergency departments, and field settings with the LEX VELO platform. Our Biology team is at the heart of that innovation, and we’re looking for a Head of Reagent Development to lead the charge on all things lyo.

This is a role for someone who’s hands on, technically excellent, and thrives in a leadership position. Someone with deep experience developing and scaling qPCR/RT-qPCR reagents, and a real track record in lyophilisation. If you know your way around freeze drying cycles, enzyme stability, and you’re motivated to turn that into something with real global impact, we’d love to hear from you.

What you’ll be doing

As Head of Reagent Development, you’ll be responsible for the design, optimisation, validation, and transfer to manufacture of our LEX VELO reagent systems, both wet and lyophilised. You’ll lead and grow a team of experienced molecular biologists and biochemists and work closely with production, assay development and engineering teams to ensure reagents are not just effective, but fully integrated with our platform.

You'll balance hands on lab work with project management, team mentorship, and strategic input into our wider product development. And you’ll do all this in a fast moving, ISO13485-aware environment, working with real purpose toward a high impact product launch.

What we’re looking for

• A PhD (or equivalent experience) in molecular biology, biochemistry or related field
• Substantial experience developing reagents for qPCR/RT-qPCR assays
• Deep, hands-on experience in lyophilisation: from formulation to equipment maintenance and cycle development
• A background in nucleic acid extraction
• A confident leader with experience managing teams and projects, including under time pressure
• Strong documentation and communication skills, particularly in a regulated (ISO13485) environment
• Experience working in BSL-2 labs and a thorough understanding of biosafety and lab control measures
• Ability to critically evaluate data, troubleshoot experiments, and guide others to do the same

What you’ll get from us

This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-impact function in a growing, ambitious diagnostics company, and play a pivotal role in the commercialisation of a system designed to transform how infections are diagnosed globally. You’ll work with a talented, mission driven team, and you’ll be supported to grow both technically and as a leader.

You’ll also get

• A collaborative and scientifically rich environment
• A clear product focus (we’re here to ship, not just research)
• Autonomy in how you and your team deliver
• The chance to shape a core part of our platform's success

Who are we and what does the future hold for you?

LEX Diagnostics was founded in 2020. Our innovative system integrates effortlessly into primary care settings, bringing PCR-level sensitivity to urgent care centres, physicians, labs, and pharmacies, all at a significantly lower cost per test than other molecular platforms.

2025 is a milestone year for us as we’ve just submitted dual 510(k) CLIA waiver applications to the U.S. FDA. This means you will be an important part of a high impact launch that will enhance your future career credentials.

The Future

In December 2023, QuidelOrtho invested in LEX Diagnostics, which included the exclusive option to acquire the company up to or shortly after 510(k) clearance by the FDA. In QuidelOrtho, we have an investment partner that recognises the capabilities of our team, and are excited for what we can continue to build together... We are optimistic to receive 510(k) clearance in late 2025 or early 2026.

What this means for you

1. More Resources - Manufacturing scale, regulatory & distribution infrastructure
2. R&D Focus - Concentrated innovation around LEX platform and test menu
3. Career Mobility - As well as creating a cross-disciplinary development environment in science and engineering, LEX employees can transition into broader roles (e.g., regulatory affairs, global supply chain, sales, clinical affairs) across the integrated organisation.
4. Global Exposure - International workflows & markets (US & EU)
5. Impact & Stability - Increased product reach and organisational strength
6. Development - Structured programs and training opportunities

2026 should see the elevation of the LEX Diagnostics team from startup environment into a well-supported, international diagnostics powerhouse without sacrificing the very thing that made our team successful, innovation. You’ll help drive forward a unique, market-leading platform within a growing team that needs to invest in your development and career growth.

Our working culture encourages entrepreneurship, shared ideas, and technical collaboration, while providing you the freedom to do your best work. We also offer fantastic employee benefits including:

• Employer pension contribution of 10% (+3% personal contribution)
• Private Medical Insurance
• Life insurance
• 25 days’ annual holiday plus bank holidays
• Discounts and memberships to local sports facilities and the theatre

Ready to lead the team that powers the assay behind the system?

Apply now.