Senior Director of Science Infrastructure & Operations

Ellison Institute of Technology; Oxford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job description

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford’s purpose is to have a global impact by fundamentally reimagining the way science and technology translate into end-to-end solutions and delivering these solutions in programmes and platforms that respond to humanity’s most challenging problems.

EIT Oxford will ensure scientific discoveries and pioneering science are turned into products for the benefit of society that can have high-impact worldwide and, over time, be commercialised to ensure long-term sustainability.

Led by a faculty of world experts, EIT Oxford seeks to solve the world’s most challenging problems across four high-risk, high-reward, high-impact humane endeavours: health and medical science; food security and sustainable agriculture; climate change and clean energy; and government innovation in an era of artificial intelligence.

EIT Oxford is investing significant resources in a new world-class research and development facility in the Oxford Science Park. Set for completion in 2027, the state-of-the-art campus includes 300,000 sq ft of research laboratories, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and educational and meeting spaces. Together, they create the perfect environment for EIT Oxford experts to take ground-breaking ideas from research to broad implementation. The new facility will further EIT’s current partnership with the University of Oxford and become the new home for Ellison Scholars.

EIT Oxford is committed to cultivating a community where excellence is achieved through collaboration, trust, innovation and tenacity. We foster an environment where everyone’s experience and expertise are valued. We are curious and resilient in our efforts to drive long-term, sustainable innovation to meet humanity’s most enduring challenges.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Director of Science Infrastructure and Operations to lead and enhance our scientific platforms, infrastructure and operations. This pivotal role involves overseeing the development, integration, and management of state-of-the-art research facilities and technological resources that empower our scientists and researchers to excel in their work.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for scientific infrastructure that aligns with the organisation's research objectives and long-term vision.
2. Operational Excellence: Oversee the operations of EIT’s scientific platforms, ensuring efficiency, compliance with regulatory standards, and adherence to best practices.
3. Collaboration: Work closely with research leaders, principal investigators, and external partners to identify infrastructure needs and implement solutions that support cutting-edge research.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

1. Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in a relevant scientific discipline.
2. Proven Experience: Extensive experience in managing scientific operations and infrastructure within a research-intensive and talent dense organisation.
3. Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams, manage complex projects, and drive strategic initiatives.
4. Technical Expertise: In-depth understanding of the integration of scientific platforms and infrastructure.
5. Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
6. Problem-Solving: Ability to anticipate operational challenges and develop innovative solutions.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

1. Experience working in a multidisciplinary and translational research environment.
2. Familiarity with emerging technologies and trends in scientific research infrastructure.
3. Experience in managing large-scale capital projects or infrastructure development initiatives.
4. Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and best practices in research compliance and bioethics.
5. Ability to foster external partnerships with academic, industry, and governmental bodies.

We offer the following salary and benefits:

1. Salary: Competitive, depending on experience + travel allowance + bonus
2. Enhanced holiday pay
3. Pension
4. Life Assurance
5. Income Protection
6. Private Medical Insurance
7. Hospital Cash Plan
8. Therapy Services
9. Perk Box
10. Electric 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:

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