Scientific Leader, Automation Operations

Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healthcare SA; Stevenage; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A multinational pharmaceutical company is seeking an Automation Operations Lead in Stevenage to spearhead the integration of automation technologies into scientific workflows. You will develop strategies for automation operations, lead a team, and collaborate globally to maximize automation investments. A Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering or Life Sciences and extensive lab automation experience is required. This innovative position promotes a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement in research technologies.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in integrated automation operations within pharmaceuticals.
• Proven track record of implementing automation solutions in labs.
• Expertise in lab automation scheduling software.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic automation operations.
• Lead a team to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Support deployment of automated solutions and provide training.

Skills

Project management

Problem-solving

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or Life Sciences

Tools

Automation scheduling software (e.g., GreenButtonGo, Cellario, Momentum)

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Electronic lab notebooks (ELNs)

Data visualization tools

Programming languages (Python, R, C', Java)

Job description

Scientific Leader, Automation Operations UK

GSK is seeking a dynamic and innovative Automation Operations Lead for our new Automation team within Data Automation & Predictive Sciences (DAPS) in our Research Technologies (RTech) division. RTech Automation will spearhead the integration of automation technologies into our scientific workflows to deliver biology and data at scale. A critical component of RTech's vision as a technology‑driven leader in target discovery and molecule design is the establishment of an integrated design‑generate‑analyze‑model‑predict cycle within DAPS, supported by this centralized Automation/Engineering team. This team will transform RTech by deploying cutting‑edge lab automation and robotics at global sites, serving as a centre for expertise and support to align strategies and maximize automation investments.

The Automation Operations Lead will be pivotal in driving the transformation of our research processes through automation and advanced technology integration. The successful candidate will train and lead a team of contingent workers to enhance productivity, efficiency, and data generation within our research teams by leveraging cutting‑edge automation solutions. Furthermore, the position will require close collaboration with cross‑functional stakeholders to ensure the efficient operations of integrated lab automation platforms across RTech.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic approach for coordinated automation operations within Research Technologies, aligning with GSK's broader automation and digitization goals.
• Lead a team of contingent workers to operate to enhance productivity, efficiency, and data generation within our research teams by leveraging cutting‑edge automation solutions.
• Support deployment of automated solutions that improve research workflows, data management, and experimental processes.
• Provide training and support to both scientific research partners and automation operations team on use of automation scheduling and integrated physical lab systems.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends to maintain GSK's competitive edge in automation. Fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the Research Technologies division.
• Build partnerships with external vendors and other partners to evaluate and implement new automation technologies.

Basic Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or Life Sciences discipline and extensive experience in integrated automation operations within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Proven track record of implementing automation solutions in a research laboratory setting.
• High degree of expertise in lab automation scheduling software including industry standards such as GreenButtonGo, Cellario, and Momentum.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously. Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to think strategically and creatively.
• Track record of matrix leadership, with a focus on fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards related to pharmaceutical research.
• Understanding of technologies including AI, machine learning, orchestration, and data analytics.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic lab notebooks (ELNs), and commercial digital orchestration software.
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, R, C', or Java.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data visualization tools.

Closing Date for Applications – 26th January 2026

We invite you to apply now and help shape the future of healthcare.

If you require adjustments to the application process, please contact us at [e-mail].

GSK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This ensures that all qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), military service or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law.