Head of Laboratory

based in London, UK

Esya Labs is a precision biomarker company providing molecular insights to facilitate diagnostics, drug discovery and personalised medicine in the neurodegenerative space. We use cutting-edge DNA-based nanotechnology, which is supported by 11 patents and has been reported in several peer-reviewed scientific publications in high-impact journals. Our pioneering technology allows us to image and analyse intracellular chemical signatures.We are seeking a motivated, enthusiastic Head of Laboratory to join our research team.

YOUR ROLE

The candidate will liaise with the Director of R&D and CEO to implement research strategies in the lab. They will be responsible for the line management of the R&D team (Scientists and Bio-Informatics) and will be contributing to the design and validation of various chemical, cell and molecular biology workflows. They will additionally be responsible for ensuring the timely progress of research grants and demonstrating exceptional project management skills. They will be responsible for the maintenance of equipment, writing of publications and grants. The candidate will be required to assist the team with laboratory experiments as and when required, including with cell culture of primary cell lines, application of novel sensors, completion of commercial compound screening experiments, fluorescent microscopy, data analysis and report generation. 

Suitable applicants will possess a background in biology, neuroscience or biochemistry. Applicants should have demonstratable years of experience in line management and project management. This position is ideally suited for somebody with a proven track record leading a research team within the industry, and possess strong self-motivation and exceptional interpersonal skills. 

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Developing a strategic roadmap and establishing monthly KPIs.
  • Leading and supervision of the scientists, biochemists and Bioinfomatician.
  • Managing resource allocation and day-to-day productivity.
  • Ensuring accountability for project delivery.
  • Project Tracking and reporting on budgets.
  • Producing weekly progress reports for team circulation.
  • Creating monthly management reports covering budget tracking, milestone reporting, and risk/issue management.
  • Leading weekly update meetings with the team.
  • Ensuring lab compliance.
  • Identifying and applying for grants, with a target of securing at least 1 million in grants in 2024.
  •  

KEY SKILLS and qualifications

  • PhD in neuroscience, biochemistry, cell biology or closely related fields
  • 3+ years’ experience in a senior laboratory position, preferably within industry
  • 3+ years’ demonstrated prior experience in managing teams and labs of 3-5 people
  • 3+ years’ project management experience, including experience managing both experimental and computational scientists
  • Demonstrated proficiency in grant writing and successful grant applications
  • Mandatory requirement of outstanding communication skills both written and oral
  • Strong management skills, including experience managing both scientists and bioinformaticians
  • Empathy, flexibility, adaptability, and effective “problem-solving” skills are essential
  • Experience in cell culture and microscopy is desirable

QUALIFICATIONS

  • PhD or MSc in Molecular or Cellular Biology, or a related subject with an emphasis or research experience in chemical biology or protein engineering.
  • Cell biology and microscopy experience required.

OUR OFFER

  • Unique learning opportunity in neurology and the pathways of neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Opportunities to work with leading researchers in molecular biology.
  • A competitive salary, reviewed annually, combined with an attractive bonus structure.
  • Flexible working hours (core hours 9-18, with a 45-hour working week).
  • Ongoing professional development support and a significant opportunity to grow with our company.

If you crave challenges and understudied problems, there’s no better place to be.

Esya is a dynamic company operating at the intersection of biochemistry, technology, and medicine.

​If you crave challenges, understudied problems, and the chance to see your work impact the millions of lives touched by Alzheimer’s Disease, there’s no better place to be.