Laboratory Manager - Biotech/Biopharma

ZipRecruiter; Oxford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a proactive Laboratory Manager to oversee daily operations in a dynamic research environment. This role is essential for maintaining operational excellence and regulatory compliance in laboratories. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in laboratory management, ensuring safety standards and effective collaboration with teams. If you are passionate about driving improvements and ensuring the highest quality in laboratory practices, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a team dedicated to scientific advancement and operational efficiency!

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience managing laboratory environments in life sciences.
• Strong knowledge of health and safety standards including COSHH and HTA.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily lab operations ensuring quality, safety, and compliance.
• Manage laboratory inventory and support procurement of new equipment.

Skills

Laboratory Management

Health and Safety Compliance

Inventory Control

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Education

Degree in Life Sciences or related field

Tools

LIMS

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Laboratory Manager - Biotech/Biopharma

Location: Oxford, United Kingdom

Role Summary

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Laboratory Manager to ensure the smooth and efficient day-to-day functioning of our clients research laboratories. This role is critical in supporting ongoing scientific work by maintaining operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and laboratory readiness. The ideal candidate will have strong experience managing lab infrastructure, processes, and safety systems, and will be comfortable collaborating with both internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities – Laboratory Operations

1. Oversee daily laboratory operations, ensuring all work is carried out to the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance.
2. Maintain and author laboratory SOPs, ensuring they are up-to-date, accessible, and clearly communicated to all relevant teams.
3. Act as the primary point of contact for laboratory-related issues, supporting resolution of operational challenges and process improvements.
4. Manage the laboratory tracker, logging and resolving facility and equipment requests in a timely and efficient manner.
5. Lead sample management, acting as the SME for the LIMS system; manage sample intake, system audits, and ongoing maintenance.
6. Ensure compliance with the Human Tissue Act (HTA), managing human tissue samples, supporting internal audits, and maintaining process documentation.
7. Coordinate laboratory equipment servicing, including planned maintenance, emergency repairs, and equipment inductions with external engineers and service providers.
8. Maintain laboratory inventory, overseeing stock control of reagents, consumables, and materials; raise purchase orders and monitor supply levels.
9. Support procurement and installation of new lab equipment, ensuring alignment with scientific team needs and operational budgets.
10. Manage waste disposal, including hazardous and clinical waste streams, in accordance with current legislation and environmental best practices.
11. Lead on health, safety, and environmental practices within the lab, including COSHH assessments, equipment risk assessments, and safety documentation.

Required Experience & Skills

1. Experience working in and managing laboratory environments, ideally within life sciences or biomedical research settings.
2. At least 3 or more years experience as a laboratory manager.
3. Strong knowledge of laboratory health, safety, and compliance standards, including COSHH and HTA.
4. Proven experience with laboratory inventory and stock control systems.
5. Familiarity with LIMS or similar sample tracking systems.
6. Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
7. Ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and external service providers.

Qualifications

1. Previous experience in a lab operations or facilities management role.
2. Experience managing or mentoring junior lab staff.
3. Knowledge of procurement processes and laboratory equipment commissioning.
4. Commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability in lab operations.

Please apply within or email your CV to [e-mail]