Senior Scientist, DNA Extraction - Pathogen

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 Pathogen Mission highlights EIT’s transformative approach, using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Oracle’s cloud technology to create a global pathogen metagenomics system. This initiative aims to improve diagnostics, provide early epidemic warnings, and guide treatments by profiling antimicrobial resistance. The goal is to deliver certified diagnostic tools for widespread use in labs, hospitals, and public health.

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

We are seeking a Senior Scientist, DNA Extraction to support the research and product development of EIT Oxford's Pathogen Programme. The lab-based role involves designing methods for extracting and manipulating DNA and other relevant biological substances from microbial pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other eukaryotes) from clinical and other sources to inform the diagnosis and treatment of infectious disease in humans. The role will involve working with other scientists and engineers in small teams to deliver the project milestones.

The postholder includes: sourcing biological material as a model system to provide samples for DNA and RNA extraction, designing, developing, and testing methods for DNA extraction and library preparation, seeking out novel methods and new technology, providing analytical protocols for quantifying and sequencing the extracted material, and troubleshooting protocols, reagents, instruments, and flow cells to optimise yields. Ideal candidates will have expertise in DNA/RNA extraction, handling cell culture, library preparation, enzymatic reaction, and assay development.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Manage a small group of scientists to deliver the project goals.
2. Aid in team recruitment and training to build the internal expertise needed for the project.
3. Provide subject matter expertise for DNA extraction and library preparation within the group.
4. Work with external suppliers and collaborators to provide the necessary materials for the project and to bring in novel methods and expertise.
5. Design experiments, tests, and protocols to optimise the quality and quantity of DNA extracted from a range of biological samples.
6. Lead the health and safety requirements for handling biological material in the laboratory.
7. Work in partnership with the teams developing the fluidics and instrumentation to ensure that appropriate methods are transferred to the automated platform while maintaining performance.

Qualifications & Experience:

1. 3+ years industry experience and PhD or equivalent experience in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related field with specialisation in DNA handling and manipulation.
2. Hands-on experience of extracting DNA or RNA from a wide range of biosamples (e.g. blood, saliva, tissue, stool, environmental samples).
3. Proven ability to design and execute experiments to characterise polynucleotides, enzymes, and other proteins.
4. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques: qPCR, RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, fluorometry, and familiarity with DNA/RNA quantification and quality control (e.g., Nanodrop, Qubit, Bioanalyzer).

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

1. Prior responsibilities setting up health and safety procedures for biological laboratories.
2. Track record of managing or mentoring junior scientists within a team.
3. Experience of library preparation and sequencing with Oxford Nanopore products.
4. Knowledge of non-traditional extraction methods (e.g., PEG-free, ethanol-free, enzymatic, microfluidic-based) and low-input or degraded DNA samples.
5. Familiarity with regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO, CLIA, FDA if applicable).

We offer the following salary and benefits:

1. Salary: Competitive salary on offer.
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. 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.