Senior Group Leader - Cell Lab

Overview

Thermo Fisher Scientific invites applications for the role of Senior Group Leader within our Laboratory Services Team located in Athlone, Ireland. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to global health advancements through the leadership and oversight of a clinical laboratory specializing in cellular and immunological assays. Our mission emphasizes enabling customers to foster a healthier, cleaner, and safer world by delivering innovative therapies and research support.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a multi-tiered team structure comprising supervisors and analysts, ensuring efficient resource allocation and project scheduling.
• Oversee laboratory information management system (LIMS) updates related to project statuses and validate timesheets for accurate billing.
• Review and approve study protocols, project and technical reports, and ensure the adherence of laboratory data to established methods, protocols, and SOPs.
• Authorize laboratory investigations, deviations, quality assurance audits, and lead client and regulatory audits.
• Engage directly with clients, address their inquiries, lead technical meetings, and provide expert recommendations on analytical and compliance matters.
• Prepare and endorse project proposals including definitions and pricing; actively participate in negotiating timelines and budgets with clients.
• Develop and implement SOPs and operational policies, enforcing compliance and recommending quality system enhancements.
• Collaborate with business development in client engagements and represent the laboratory in marketing activities, contributing to the identification of business opportunities at conferences and community events.
• Own and contribute to bi-annual SOP reviews and manage requisite changes to maintain compliance.
• Communicate quality-related updates and staff development initiatives regularly, fostering continuous quality improvement within the team.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree or higher in relevant scientific disciplines such as Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Immunology, or Cell Biology.
• A minimum of eight years of relevant experience and at least two years in a managerial role.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Expertise in developing cellular and immunological assay techniques.
• Experience within Cell & Gene Therapy sectors is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership capabilities coupled with a solution-focused approach to project challenges.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in conducting root cause analysis for method investigations and technical writing for documentation including SOPs and investigation records.
• In-depth knowledge of QA metrics, SOP writing, and recommendations for procedural enhancements.
• Proven experience in mentoring and direct supervision of technical staff.
• Ability to foster teamwork and collaboration across multiple business units while identifying operational efficiencies.
• Comprehensive understanding of GMP, client SOPs, ICH guidelines, EP and USP standards, alongside EMA and FDA regulatory guidance.
• Capability to independently optimize analytical methods and effectively manage time and projects.

Work Schedule & Conditions

• Work routine primarily Monday through Friday following a standard schedule.
• Strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and safety standards within laboratory settings.

Why Work with Us?

Joining Thermo Fisher Scientific means becoming part of a dynamic global organization that prioritizes scientific innovation, collaboration, and personal growth. This role allows for impactful contributions toward advancing health outcomes worldwide.