Lead Technologist

Lead Technologist – Central Safety Laboratory

Location: Groningen, The Netherlands

This opening has an expected closing date of 12 September 2026.

About QPS

QPS Holdings, LLC is an award-winning global contract research organization (CRO) providing bioanalytical, preclinical, and clinical research services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies worldwide. Our Central Safety Laboratory in Groningen supports clinical trials through high-quality laboratory testing that helps advance the development of new therapies.

About the Role

We're looking for an experienced Lead Technologist to join our growing Central Safety Laboratory in Groningen. This is a senior, hands-on laboratory role that combines technical expertise with operational leadership. In addition to performing complex diagnostic testing, you'll work closely with the Laboratory Manager to support daily operations, improve workflows, drive quality initiatives, and mentor colleagues. As the laboratory continues to grow, you'll have the opportunity to broaden your involvement in technical leadership, laboratory operations, and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do

• Perform moderate- and high-complexity diagnostic laboratory testing and ensure accurate, reliable results.

• Support the Laboratory Manager with daily laboratory operations, workflow coordination, and technical oversight.

• Troubleshoot laboratory instruments, methods, and analytical issues while supporting equipment maintenance.

• Monitor quality control activities, proficiency testing, and quality assurance initiatives to maintain regulatory compliance.

• Support validation, administration, and continuous improvement of the Laboratory Information System (LIS) in collaboration with QA and IT.

• Train, mentor, and support laboratory staff while coordinating onboarding and competency activities.

• Contribute to method validations, policy updates, process improvements, and accreditation readiness.

• Collaborate with colleagues across the laboratory to deliver high-quality services that support global clinical trials.

What You'll Bring

• A Vocational (MLO) or Bachelor's (HLO) degree in Life Sciences or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience.

• At least 2 years of experience performing high-complexity diagnostic or clinical laboratory testing.

• Clinical research laboratory experience is highly preferred.

• Experience working within a regulated laboratory environment, including knowledge of GCP, ICH Guidelines, ISO 15189, or similar quality systems.

• Strong technical troubleshooting, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Experience with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) is an advantage.

• A collaborative approach with an interest in mentoring colleagues and continuously improving laboratory operations.

• Strong Dutch language proficiency (C1+ level) is a requirement for this role. Good written and spoken professional-level English is also needed.

Why Join QPS?

Join QPS at an exciting time as we build our new Central Safety Laboratory in Groningen. You'll have the opportunity to apply your technical expertise, help establish strong laboratory processes and quality standards, and mentor colleagues as the team grows. Working closely with the Laboratory Manager, you'll also gain broader exposure to laboratory operations and technical leadership, with opportunities to expand your skills and responsibilities over time.

This is a fully onsite position based in Groningen.

We currently plan to close the posting on 12 September 2026. We will review applications as we receive them and expect to conduct screening calls and interviews during the following 2 weeks. We may adjust the recruitment timeline based on business needs and the progress of the selection process.

Vaccination Protocol

At QPS, we are committed to maintaining a healthy and safe workplace. Our vaccination program, including Hepatitis B, supports that commitment. Participation may be required for some roles and is voluntary or encouraged for others. By applying, you acknowledge that you understand this policy as it relates to the position for which you are applying.

Interested?

If you're looking for a role where you can apply your technical expertise, take on broader responsibilities, and work closely with laboratory leadership to help establish and grow our new Central Safety Laboratory, we'd like to hear from you. Apply today by submitting your CV and motivation letter. To learn more about QPS, visit www.qps.com.

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