Lab of the Future Lead (m/w/d) (80-100%)

Lab of the Future Lead (m/w/d) (80-100%) An agile career and a dynamic work cultureAn inclusive and ethical workplaceCompensation programs that recognize high performanceIn addition to a competitive salary, you can expect numerous lifestyle, family, and leisure benefits.Relocation support for eligible candidate The Lab of the Future Lead (Director level) defines and advances the future laboratory and analytical agenda across Integrated Biologics, Advanced Synthesis and Specialized Modalities, working closely with the QC organization and relevant analytical functions. The role develops end-to-end concepts for highly automated and increasingly autonomous laboratories, integrating analytical workflows, laboratory equipment, robotics, automated sample handling, digital systems and data into a coherent future-state operating model. A key focus is identifying how advanced analytical technologies, robotics and automation can transform laboratory operations across QC, RD and Analytical Development, while also evolving how manufacturing processes are monitored, controlled and released. This includes the integration of PAT, online and at-line monitoring, process prediction, real-time analytics and advanced decision-support capabilities to reduce reliance on traditional offline testing and enable faster, more predictive operations. The Lab of the Future Lead drives lighthouse projects and pilots to evaluate and validate emerging technologies, translates successful solutions into scalable standards and deployment concepts, and works closely with QC, RD, Analytical Development, Engineering, Automation, Digital/IT, Advanced Manufacturing Technology and manufacturing functions. As a core member of the Advanced Industry LT, the role connects laboratory and analytical evolution directly with the future manufacturing operating model, enabling safer, faster, more predictive, robust and cost-effective quality operations while maintaining regulatory and compliance requirements. The role is based in Basel, Switzerland. What you will do Define the Lab of the Future vision, roadmap and target operating conceptsDevelop end-to-end concepts for highly automated and autonomous laboratoriesIntegrate workflows, analytical equipment, robotics, sample handling, digital systems and dataAlign future laboratory concepts with QC, RD, Analytical Development, platform and manufacturing strategiesIdentify opportunities to automate sample preparation, movement, testing, equipment interaction and result handlingEvaluate next-generation analytical equipment and automation-ready instrumentationDrive application of robotics for repetitive, high-frequency and contamination-sensitive laboratory activitiesDefine interfaces between laboratory equipment, robotics, automation systems and digital platformsPromote equipment and automation standards that support scalability and replication Process Analytics Future Operations Drive integration of PAT, online/at-line monitoring and real-time analytical capabilities into future manufacturing conceptsIdentify opportunities to shift from offline testing toward continuous monitoring and predictive quality assuranceDevelop use cases for process prediction, advanced analytics and intelligent decision supportConnect analytical data with process control strategies and future operating modelsSupport evolution toward faster release approaches, including real-time release or release by exception where appropriate Lighthouse Technology Development Identify and lead high-value laboratory lighthouse projects and pilotsEvaluate emerging analytical, automation, robotic and process-monitoring technologiesDefine success criteria covering quality, productivity, cycle time, labor reduction and scalabilityTranslate validated technologies into reusable standards and deployment requirements Integration with Quality, RD, Manufacturing Data Align analytical capabilities with future manufacturing and process requirementsPartner with QC, RD and Analytical Development on future laboratory and analytical operating modelsConnect laboratory data, PAT, process monitoring and predictive analytics with manufacturing operationsWork with Data Strategy Products and Advanced Manufacturing Technology on system, data and technology integration Scale-Up Replication Convert proven solutions into scalable laboratory and analytical conceptsSupport replication across platforms, sites and future buildsStandardize successful equipment, automation and workflow concepts where appropriateFeed analytical learnings into future manufacturing, QC and product-release strategies What we are looking for Bachelor or Master in the field of Analytical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or a related discipline Laboratory Strategy Future-State Design: Ability to translate QC, analytical and business needs into an integrated laboratory roadmap, design principles and target operating model. QC Analytical Sciences: Strong understanding of analytical testing, laboratory operations, method lifecycle, GMP requirements and product-release processes across relevant modalities. Laboratory Automation Digital Workflows: Knowledge of automated sample handling, laboratory informatics, connected instruments, orchestration and digital workflow design. Process Analytics Predictive Quality: Ability to connect PAT, process monitoring, advanced analytics and laboratory data to support prediction, real-time release and release by exception. End-to-End Quality Systems Thinking: Ability to integrate methods, samples, instruments, data, automation, people and compliance requirements into coherent future-state solutions. Cross-Functional Program Leadership: Demonstrated ability to mobilize and align multidisciplinary teams across QC, platforms, sites and global functions without relying on direct authority. Executive Communication Influence: Ability to communicate complex laboratory concepts, trade-offs, evidence and recommendations clearly to senior quality, business, technical and operational stakeholders. Lighthouse Governance, Replication Scale-Up: Experience defining hypotheses, value measures, risks and decision criteria, and converting validated solutions into reusable standards and deployment requirements About Lonza At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of. Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board. Reference: R80282 You will feel at home at Lonza if you: Take ownership, step forward, and enjoy meaningful responsibility Love solving problems and thrive in a complex, fast-moving environment Are curious, always looking to learn and improve Work collaboratively, contributing to something bigger than yourself Are motivated to make a difference through work that impacts customers and their patients Why Lonza: We are a place of unique opportunity, where your ideas, expertise and ambition can make a real difference. Here, will have the freedom to grow, the support to succeed and the chance to contribute to work that matters. We are the makers of the medicines of tomorrow. #J-18808-Ljbffr