Head of Media and Glass (Generative Biology Institute)

Ellison Institute of Technology; Oxford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford tackles humanity’s greatest challenges by turning science and technology into impactful global solutions. Focused on areas like health, food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, clean energy, and AI-driven government innovation, EIT Oxford blends groundbreaking research with practical applications to deliver lasting results.

A cornerstone of EIT Oxford’s mission is its upcoming 300,000-square-foot research facility at the Oxford Science Park, set to open in 2027. This cutting-edge campus will feature advanced labs, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and collaborative spaces to strengthen its partnership with the University of Oxford. It will also host the Ellison Scholars, driving innovation for societal benefit.

The Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford aims to overcome two major challenges in making biology engineerable: 1) the ability to precisely synthesize entire genomes, and 2) understanding which DNA sequences will create biological systems that perform desired functions. Solving these challenges will unlock the potential of biology for transformative solutions in health, sustainability, agriculture, and more. GBI will house 30 groups and over 300 researchers, supported by cutting-edge facilities and sustained funding to address global challenges and advance biology engineering.

EIT Oxford fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, valuing diverse expertise to drive sustainable solutions to humanity’s enduring challenges.

GBI is looking for a Head of Media and Glass to manage our Media and Glass team, ensuring the seamless preparation, quality control, and distribution of chemical reagents, buffers, and sterile media for tissue culture and laboratory experiments. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing efficient systems, protocols, and quality control standards to support GBI’s high standards of research.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage the preparation, quality control, and distribution of chemical reagents, buffers, and sterile media for tissue culture and other laboratory experiments within GBI.
• Develop and implement a structured and consistent strategy for media and glass management within GBI.
• Ensure the sterile preparation, filtration, and storage of media and solutions, maintaining consistency and quality for sensitive experimental applications.
• Oversee the cleaning, sterilisation, and supply of glassware, ensuring it meets the required standards for GBI research.
• Recruit, train, and line manage the media and glass services team, ensuring expertise in the preparation of specialised media and reagents.
• Manage the financial and equipment resources of the media and glass facility, ensuring cost-effective procurement and maintenance of stock levels.
• Plan and implement improvements in media preparation protocols, adopting industry best practices.
• Determine, obtain, and manage the resource requirements for supporting chemistry and tissue culture experiments, including consumables, autoclaves, and filtration systems.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations, including proper handling of chemicals, biosafety requirements, and waste disposal protocols.

Qualifications & Experience:

• A strong track record of managing and delivering high-quality media preparation and glassware services to support diverse research needs, including chemistry and tissue culture experiments.
• Proven expertise in overseeing complex laboratory logistics, ensuring the timely preparation and distribution of sterile media, buffers, and reagents.
• Track record of implementing process improvements and quality control measures to enhance the efficiency and reliability of media and glassware services.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with researchers and technical staff across GBI, ensuring alignment with experimental requirements.
• A passion for team leadership, with experience in training, coaching, and managing facilities staff.

We offer the following salary and benefits:

• Competitive salary on offer
• Enhanced holiday pay
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Private Medical Insurance
• Hospital Cash Plan
• Therapy Services
• Perk Box
• Electrical Car Scheme

Why work for EIT:

At the Ellison Institute, we believe a collaborative, inclusive team is key to our success. We are building a supportive environment where creative risks are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. Valuing emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience, we encourage people to be curious and to have a shared commitment to excellence. Join us and make an impact!

Terms of Appointment:

• You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary.
• You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford.
• During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.