Group Leader - Advanced Composite Manufacturing and Testing

Permanent contract | Hautcharage Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join us

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a Research and Technology Organization (RTO) active in the fields of materials, environment and IT. By transforming scientific knowledge into technologies, smart data and tools, LIST empowers citizens in their choices, public authorities in their decisions and businesses in their strategies.

Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website: https://www.list.lu/ 

We are looking for an accomplished Group Leader with expertise in advanced composite manufacturing, processing, and testing. This role involves leading a team in the development of innovative and sustainable composite materials, as well as spearheading research and development efforts within the organization. Reporting to the Head of Unit, the Group Leader will establish and implement the team’s strategic roadmap and goals, ensuring alignment with the broader unit objectives. This includes managing the group’s project portfolio, budget, and resource allocation, as well as overseeing performance.

The Group Leader will work closely with other teams to foster synergies and contribute to the capitalization and commercialization of the unit’s RDI assets. They will also focus on developing team competencies and strengthening the unit’s talent pipeline, ensuring accountability for the group’s outcomes and resource management. With a proven background in multi-project and program management and reporting skills, ideal candidate will have the skills and experience needed to lead a team of highly skilled professionals effectively. 

How will you contribute?

As Group Leader, you will oversee a multidisciplinary team, driving advancements in computational design, additive manufacturing (AM), and composite material characterization, with a particular focus on solutions for the transportation sector. Expertise in lightweight design, optimization, part and assembly design for industry, and advanced composite solutions, particularly for the transportation market, is highly valued. 

You will be mainly in charge of:

Leadership & Team Management

• Define group objectives and create strategic plans (short, mid, and long-term) to achieve these goals in alignment with unit strategy. Track progress using KPIs and dashboards, adjusting as needed to stay on course.
• Lead a team of 20-25 professionals, including scientists, engineers, and technicians, in advance composite manufacturing, processing and testing.
• Allocate and manage group resources and budget, ensuring efficient and appropriate use to meet project and unit goals.
• Oversee a diverse project portfolio with a balanced mix of competitive and industry-funded RDI projects, ensuring alignment with unit objectives.
• Provides primary leadership to the submission and execution of RDI project. Is accountable for the smooth running of the projects and the results obtained.
• Inspire, coach, and develop team members, fostering an environment of innovation and growth. Manage HR-related activities, including hiring, setting targets, development reviews, and performance appraisals.
• Engage in cross-functional collaboration, both within the LIST and with external scientific communities, to create synergies and build a strong network within and outside of the organization. 

Research, Design, and Innovation

• Drive the design and innovation of lightweight composite materials for industrial applications, particularly in mobility and transportation sectors.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the Structural Composites Unit, ensuring alignment with the group’s mission.
• Promote continuous improvement in RDI methodologies, tools, and processes.
• Spearhead technical and content decisions, partnering with senior stakeholders to shape the direction of projects within the organization.

Composite Material Development & Manufacturing

• Develop and implement efficient, high-quality, and safe manufacturing processes for composite materials, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Work closely with other RTOs, customers, and stakeholders to optimize production methods, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Train and mentor team members, enhancing skills and knowledge to ensure high performance.
• Maintain project timelines, meeting deliverables within budget constraints, and drive CAPEX initiatives to secure best-in-class research facilities. 

Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

Education and Experience

• Ph.D. in Material Science or Engineering.
• Ideally 8-10 years of experience managing teams in material science or related fields, with a strong record in applied research.
• Strong publication record in advanced composites research.
• Demonstrated RDI experience and a solid understanding of advanced composite manufacturing and processing.
• Proven project  and program management skills, with experience in budget realization and reporting.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership abilities, with experience fostering collaborative and inclusive environments.
• An industry experience is a plus
• Strong analytical skills, quick thinking, and adaptability to a dynamic research environment.
• Excellent communicator and team player, with proven skills in people development and team-building.
• Motivated by innovation, with a drive to push technical boundaries.
• Strong managerial skills and the ability to lead a diverse team effectively.

Language skills

• Good level both written and spoken English. French or German language skills are an asset for this role 

Join us in this influential role, where you will lead a skilled team and drive cutting-edge composite material innovations in a collaborative and growth-oriented environment. 

Your LIST benefits

• An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects
• Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society
• Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do
• An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas
• Personalized learning programme to foster our staff’s soft and technical skills
• Multicultural and international work environment with more than 50 nationalities represented in our workforce
• Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions
• Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science
• 32 days’ paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance
• Flexible working hours, home working policy and access to lunch vouchers 

Apply online

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience
• A scientific CV with contact details
• List of publications (and patents, if applicable)
• Contact details of 2 references

Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered. 

Application procedure and conditions

We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.

LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.

Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.