Senior Scientist, Microfluidics - Pathogen

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

Job summary

An innovative institute seeks a Senior Scientist in Microfluidics to drive research in DNA extraction technologies. This role involves designing and fabricating microfluidic devices that enhance diagnostics for infectious diseases. The position promises collaboration with a diverse team, working on cutting-edge technologies in a supportive environment. Join a mission-driven organization that values creativity and resilience, contributing to impactful global solutions in health and technology. Embrace the opportunity to make a difference in a vibrant research community at the forefront of scientific advancement.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Enhanced Holiday Pay

Pension

Life Assurance

Income Protection

Private Medical Insurance

Hospital Cash Plan

Therapy Services

Perk Box

Electrical Car Scheme

Qualifications

• 2+ years industry experience in microfluidics and a relevant PhD.
• Hands-on experience with microfabrication techniques.

Responsibilities

• Research and optimize microfluidic systems for DNA extraction.
• Design experiments for device characterization and fluid dynamics.

Skills

Microfluidics

MEMS Fabrication

Analytical Chemistry

Assay Development

Experimental Design

Education

PhD in Engineering

PhD in Physics

PhD in Bioengineering

Tools

Soft Lithography

Photolithography

CNC Micromilling

Injection Molding

3D Microprinting

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, Microfluidics to support the research and product development of EIT Oxford's Pathogen Programme. The role involves designing, fabricating, and testing microfluidic flow cells for extracting DNA and other biological substances from microbial pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other eukaryotes) from clinical and other sources to inform the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases in humans. The role requires working with scientists and engineers in small teams to achieve project milestones.

The postholder will prototype fluidic array structures for moving small fluid volumes between reaction and purification chambers, fabricate these arrays for evaluation, and design and perform tests to evaluate the microfluidic array's performance for DNA extraction and manipulation. Ideal candidates will have expertise in microfluidics, MEMs fabrication, analytical chemistry, and assay development. Experience working with biological samples and DNA is beneficial.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research, develop, and optimize microfluidic systems for DNA extraction from biosamples, including purification and DNA manipulation
• Design and execute experiments for device characterization, fluid dynamics analysis, and performance validation
• Develop and run protocols for fabrication, assembly, and testing of microfluidic devices
• Optimize array and flow cell performance for high yields, ease of use, and robustness
• Contribute to intellectual property generation, including patents and disclosures
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations for stakeholders and collaborators

Qualifications & Experience:

• 2+ years industry experience and a PhD or equivalent in Engineering, Physics, Bioengineering, or related fields, with specialization in microfluidics, MEMS, or lab-on-a-chip systems
• Hands-on experience with microfabrication techniques such as soft lithography, photolithography, CNC micromilling, injection molding, or 3D microprinting
• Proven ability to design and perform experiments to characterize microfluidic systems (e.g., flow profiling, pressure measurements, mixing efficiency, droplet generation)
• Skills in integrating microfluidics with sensors, optics, electronics, or automation platforms

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• Familiarity with biological or biochemical applications in microfluidics (e.g., single-cell analysis, droplet microfluidics, bead handling, point-of-care diagnostics, organ-on-chip)
• Experience troubleshooting and optimizing complex fluidic workflows
• Familiarity with microscopy and imaging techniques relevant to microfluidics (e.g., fluorescence, brightfield, confocal)
• Experience developing technologies within regulatory frameworks for in vitro diagnostics in the UK, EU, or USA

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• 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 value collaboration, inclusivity, emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience. We foster a supportive environment where creative risks are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. Join us to make an impact!

Terms of Appointment:

You must have the right to work permanently in the UK and be willing to travel as needed. You should live in or near Oxford. Some longer hours and work across multiple time zones may be required during peak periods due to the global nature of the programme.