Research Director

Associate Director - Biology & DNA Services

Location:

East Midlands or East of England An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced scientific leader to join a highly respected organisation operating within a technically complex, regulated environment. This senior leadership position offers the chance to influence strategic direction, lead multidisciplinary scientific teams, and drive operational excellence across biological and DNA services. We are seeking an accomplished leader with a strong background in biological sciences and DNA analysis, combined with proven experience managing large teams, delivering business objectives, and developing operational strategy.

The Opportunity Reporting into the executive leadership team, you will take ownership of multiple biological and DNA functions, providing strategic oversight across operations, quality, research and development, and continuous improvement initiatives. You will play a pivotal role in:
Leading and developing high-performing scientific and operational teams. Defining and delivering strategic objectives aligned to organisational growth plans. Driving innovation through the adoption of emerging technologies, automation, and data-led solutions. Ensuring compliance with industry regulations, quality standards, and accreditation requirements. Managing departmental budgets and contributing to investment and business planning decisions. Delivering operational improvements that enhance efficiency, capability, and customer outcomes.

Building and maintaining strong relationships with external stakeholders, partners, regulators, and customers. About You To be successful in this role, you will bring:
Significant experience within a highly regulated scientific, laboratory, forensic, life sciences, biotechnology, or similar technical environment. Demonstrable experience operating in a senior leadership position with responsibility for people, performance, budgets, and strategy. Strong expertise in biological sciences, molecular biology, DNA analysis, or closely related disciplines. A proven track record of leading technical projects and organisational change initiatives. Excellent commercial awareness and the ability to balance scientific excellence with business objectives.

Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels. A degree or equivalent qualification in Biology, DNA Science, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related scientific field. Why Apply? This is a rare opportunity to join an organisation at the forefront of scientific service delivery, where you will have genuine influence over strategic direction, operational performance, and future innovation.

The successful candidate will combine scientific credibility with exceptional leadership capability and a passion for developing teams and delivering excellence. If you are an established scientific leader with extensive DNA and biological analysis expertise and are looking for a role where you can make a significant strategic impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.