Research Scientist and Laboratory Manager

About Kerry

About the role

Are you a hands-on scientist who thrives at the intersection of research excellence and laboratory leadership? Do you enjoy building something new, shaping robust scientific operations, and seeing your work translate into real-world health impact?

We are looking for a Research Scientist & Laboratory Manager to play a pivotal role in establishing and leading a new R&D preclinical laboratory in Germany, supporting innovative research programs focused on human and companion animal health.

This is a unique dual-role opportunity combining laboratory management with cutting-edge preclinical research. You will be instrumental in setting up a new lab site, embedding best-in-class biosafety and operational standards, while actively contributing to the discovery and characterization of functional ingredients through innovative preclinical models.

This role is based at the Kerry Biotechnology Center, located within the established c LEcta site in Leipzig/ Germany. c LEcta is a leading biotechnology company specializing in enzyme engineering and production, now part of the Kerry Group’s global biotechnology network.

Being part of this site means working within a vibrant scientific ecosystem that combines industrial biotechnology expertise, innovation, and global research collaboration.

To learn more about the site and its capabilities, visit www.c-lecta.com.

Key responsibilities

• Support the implementation and launch of a new R&D laboratory, including transfer of equipment, protocols, and critical model systems.
• Manage day-to-day laboratory operations as part of a global Scientific Research Services group.
• Ensure maintenance, validation, and calibration of laboratory equipment and devices.
• Train laboratory personnel on equipment use, protocols, and best practices.
• Act as Biosafety Officer for a Biosafety Level 2 licensed laboratory, ensuring compliance with safety, security, and regulatory requirements.
• Utilize, internalize, and develop preclinical models to discover and characterize novel functional ingredients with positive health impacts.
• Design and execute research project plans in collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Analyze, interpret, and present data using appropriate statistical and analytical tools.
• Prepare scientific publications, protocols, technical reports, and presentations.
• Provide scientific and technical expertise to support laboratory projects as needed.
• Contribute to a culture of curiosity, continuous learning, and innovative thinking.

Technical Expertise

You bring strong hands-on experience across multiple preclinical and microbiology techniques, including:

• C. elegans preclinical models
• Anaerobic bacterial culture
• Probiotic characterization and identification
• Traditional cell culture and microbiology
• Basic molecular biology (DNA/RNA extraction, visualization, quantification, gene expression, sequencing preparation)
• Flow cytometry
• Experience with 3D cell culture and/or organoid models is a plus.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of the launch and growth of a new R&D laboratory
• Combine science, leadership, and operational ownership in one impactful role
• Work within a global research network focused on advancing health through science
• Play a meaningful role in developing innovative, science-driven solutions with real-world impact

Qualifications and skills

• Master’s degree in Microbiology with 5+ years of relevant industry or research experience
• Qualified to hold a Biosafety Level 2 license in Germany, including:
• Previous experience in an InfSchG §44-certified laboratory
• Eligibility to take on formal biosafety responsibility
• Experience in a laboratory management role preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and German
• Proven experience preparing professional scientific reports and publications
• Excellent experimental design, documentation, and record-keeping skills
• Systems proficiency: MS Office, GraphPad Prism, FlowJo (experience with R is a plus)