Senior Microbiology Team Lead

Job Title: Senior Microbiology Team Lead

Location: Oxford

Pay rate: £50 per hour

12 month contract

Cpl Life Sciences is working exclusively with a biotech company seeking a Senior Microbiology Team Lead to oversee and drive microbiological research, method development, and regulatory compliance. This leadership role involves managing a team of microbiologists, optimising assays, and ensuring microbiological integrity across product development and manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities:

·       Lead and manage a team of microbiologists, providing mentorship and technical direction.

·       Optimise and oversee microbiological assays for sterility, bioburden, endotoxin, environmental monitoring, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

·       Develop, validate, and implement new microbiological methods to support product innovation.

·       Ensure regulatory compliance with GMP, ISO 13485, MHRA, and FDA requirements, supporting audits and inspections.

·       Troubleshoot microbiological issues in manufacturing, product development, and quality control.

·       Drive continuous improvement initiatives for microbiological testing, working cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing teams.

·       Stay updated with industry advancements, regulatory changes, and emerging microbiological technologies, implementing best practices to enhance efficiency and compliance.

Essential Skills & Experience:

·       PhD or MSc in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related field, with 6+ years of industry experience (biotech, pharma, or industrial microbiology).

·       Strong expertise in microbial identification, molecular techniques (PCR, NGS), biofilm research, sterility assurance, and contamination control.

·       Experience in method development, validation, and troubleshooting of microbiological assays.

·       Demonstrated leadership experience, with a proven track record of mentoring and developing high-performing teams.

·       Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks (GMP, ISO 13485, FDA, MHRA) and experience supporting audits.

·       Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

·       Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting findings and influencing stakeholders.

If you are interested, please apply now or send your CV to [email protected]