Qkine, based in Cambridge, UK, manufactures high-purity, animal-free growth factors and cytokines. Combining proprietary production and protein engineering techniques, we tackle fundamental biological and scale-up challenges in stem cell, organoid, regenerative medicine, and cultured meat sectors, attracting loyal customers from leading biotech companies and world-class academic institutions.
We are seeking an experienced professional to join us as Manufacture Lead. In this role, you will manage the Manufacture team’s scheduling and daily operations, act as their line manager, and collaborate with Quality Assurance to ensure all batches meet the Nine-point Qkine Quality Commitment and comply with ISO 9001:2015 or future accreditation standards.
You will also oversee a Process Development team tasked with improving upstream and downstream workflows to increase yields, enhance throughput, and reduce production costs. This includes integrating larger-scale equipment and troubleshooting existing processes - experience in these areas would be highly advantageous.
The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or equivalent experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, with a strong background in protein production, purification, and team leadership. This is an onsite-based role, and it is envisaged that responsibilities will initially be split between lab and desk-based work, requiring excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and a proactive mindset.
You will have:
• Extensive experience in recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Experience with AKTA systems or similar, with the ability to troubleshoot purification issues.
• Knowledge of ELN platforms and accurate data collection and presentation.
• Experience working with a QMS such as ISO 9001:2015 or ISO 13485, with an understanding of quality assurance practices.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills, with experience managing and mentoring team members.
• Familiarity with batch record review and quality sign-off procedures in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to plan, schedule, and oversee team activities effectively.
We believe in nurturing our team, empowering individuals, and working flexibly. We do this while exceeding the expectations of our customers and collaborators by focussing on delivering the best service, scientific insight, and product quality.
In addition to competitive salaries, we also offer a free private medical scheme to all our employees and an attractive employee share option scheme.
How to apply:
Please send a two-page CV and a one-page covering letter explaining why you are a great fit for the role and would like to join our team. Please send as a single PDF file to recruitment@qkine.com.
We will be interviewing on a rolling basis for this key team member. Informal enquiries are welcome via recruitment@qkine.com. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Qkine is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and creating an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment.