BIOPROCESS TEAM LEAD – OXFORDSHIRE

We are looking for a dynamic Bioprocess Team Lead to join a growing start-up.
Salary: £55.000 - £65,000
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire, UK
As Bioprocess Team Lead, you will drive the design, development, and realisation of their bioreactor platform. You will influence strategy, lead the bioprocessing department, and oversee key projects. Working closely with the executive team, you will define objectives and deliver innovative bioprocessing solutions that accelerate commercialisation.
If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, have strong expertise in bioreactors and bioprocess development, and are excited about the future of biomanufacturing, apply now!

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Passion, curiosity, and a drive to innovate.
• 3+ years of bioprocess development experience in industry or a PhD in biochemical engineering, bioprocessing, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with small-scale bioreactor platforms.
• Strong background in mammalian cell culture and analytical techniques.
• Proven expertise in cell culture and 3D culture systems.
• Experience with CAD for bioprocess design.
• Data analysis skills using Python, R, or MATLAB.
• Knowledge of PFDs, P&IDs, and HAZOP analysis.

DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE:

• Expertise in perfusion bioreactor systems.
• Experience with hollow fibre membrane bioreactors.
• Understanding of membrane characterisation.
• Background in muscle or fat biology, cell metabolism, or development.
• Knowledge of the cultivated meat industry.
• Experience in bioprocess scale-up and technical development.
• Application of Design of Experiments (DoE) methodologies.

• Design, develop, and optimise pilot-scale bioreactor processes.
• Develop and implement scale-up technologies.
• Establish and maintain experimental protocols, SOPs, and risk assessments.
• Drive health & safety standards in the bioprocessing department.
• Design, plan, and execute R&D studies aligned with project deliverables.
• Analyse and present experimental results, providing actionable insights.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance company bioprocessing solutions.
• Stay at the forefront of technological advancements to identify process improvement opportunities.
• Share responsibility for out-of-hours bioprocess operations.