Laboratory Director

decco Bulgaria is recruiting on behalf of an innovative biotechnology company seeking an experienced scientific leader to oversee a modern R&D laboratory and drive the development of technologies aimed at supporting sustainable agriculture.

Our client is developing advanced biotechnology and microbiology-based solutions designed to reduce reliance on conventional agricultural inputs and improve crop production efficiency.

Following international recognition and successful funding, the company is entering an exciting growth phase and expanding its scientific leadership team.

This is a unique opportunity for a highly motivated professional with strong scientific expertise and leadership capabilities to build and lead a high-performing laboratory environment, collaborate with international experts, and contribute directly to the development of innovative products with real-world impact.

Candidate Profile:

• Advanced degree in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biological Sciences, or a related field; a PhD is considered a strong advantage.
• Additional expertise in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Biopolymers, Encapsulation Technologies, or Nanomaterials would be highly beneficial.
• Proven experience in Research & Development (R&D).
• Previous experience leading, mentoring, and coordinating scientific or technical teams.
• Strong results orientation and the ability to drive projects toward measurable outcomes.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and communication skills.
• Professional proficiency in English.
• Strong digital literacy and interest in leveraging emerging technologies and AI-driven tools.
• Proactive, self-driven, and capable of making decisions in a fast-paced and evolving environment.

What Our Client Offers:

• The opportunity to lead a state-of-the-art laboratory equipped with modern research infrastructure and advanced instrumentation.
• The chance to contribute to the development of breakthrough technologies with the potential to transform agricultural practices.
• Collaboration with an international network of experts across multiple scientific disciplines.
• Competitive compensation package, including a performance-based bonus structure.
• Significant autonomy, ownership, and the opportunity to influence scientific strategy and organizational growth.
• A full-time employment contract within an ambitious, innovation-driven environment.

All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality by Adecco. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the selection process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the scientific activities of the laboratory and take ownership of research objectives, milestones, and outcomes.
• Manage and coordinate a multidisciplinary team of scientists and technical specialists.
• Translate company strategy into actionable research priorities, projects, and weekly objectives.
• Collaborate with international advisors and external partners, organizing regular meetings and ensuring effective implementation of recommendations.
• Work closely with the leadership team to define and execute short- and long-term scientific goals.
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve laboratory workflows, SOPs, and scientific operating processes.
• Oversee laboratory equipment, inventory management, procurement activities, and budget planning.
• Coordinate activities related to research projects, grants, and funding programs.
• Organize and support greenhouse and field validation trials when required.
• Foster a safe, efficient, and productive laboratory environment.
• Participate in identifying, recruiting, onboarding, and developing new team members.
• Contribute to hands-on laboratory work when necessary to gain a deep understanding of technologies and processes.