Cell Biology Technician - MDLS

Led by a world-class faculty of scientists, technologists, policy makers, economists and entrepreneurs, the Ellison Institute of Technology aims to develop and deploy commercially sustainable solutions to solve some of humanity’s most enduring challenges. Our work is guided by four Humane Endeavours: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change & Managing Atmospheric CO2 and Artificial Intelligence & Robotics.

Set for completion in 2027, the EIT Campus in Littlemore will include more than 300,000 sq ft of research laboratories, educational and gathering spaces. Fuelled by growing ambition and the strength of Oxford’s science ecosystem, EIT is now expanding its footprint to a 2 million sq ft Campus across the western part of The Oxford Science Park. Designed by Foster + Partners led by Lord Norman Foster, this will become a transformative workplace for up to 7,000 people, with autonomous laboratories, purpose-built laboratories including a plant sciences building and dynamic spaces to spark interdisciplinary collaboration.

The Materials & Devices for Life Sciences (MDLS) Institute at the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) is advancing human health by scaling interdisciplinary science at the interface of biology and engineering. Building on the breakthrough of protein nanopore technology that revolutionised genomics, the MDLS institute is expanding this approach to detect a wider range of biological molecules, including volatiles in human breath. In parallel, the Institute is developing state-of-the-art methods that integrate living tissues with synthetic scaffolds to model and repair organs. These efforts converge across three interrelated programmes; Nanopore Sensing and Sequencing, 3D Tissue Construction, and Device Engineering to create next-generation technologies that translate discovery into clinical impact.

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

MDLS are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Cell Biology Technician to provide essential technical support within a dynamic research laboratory environment. This role focuses on the maintenance, processing, and analysis of cell cultures, including stem cells, and contributes to the smooth operation of the lab through hands-on experimental work and collaborative support.

Working closely with senior scientists and interdisciplinary teams, you will perform cell culture and molecular biology experiments, maintain laboratory equipment, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards. The position offers an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, train new team members, and support the development of innovative biological workflows.

Key Responsibilities

Cell Culture and Maintenance

• Routinely handle and culture both 2D cells and 3D tissues.
• Freeze, thaw, and characterize various cell lines, including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and differentiated derivatives.

Experimental Support

• Assist researchers with the design and execution of experiments.
• Perform characterization techniques such as microscopy and flow cytometry.

Molecular Biology Techniques

• Conduct DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and immunostaining.

Documentation and Data Management

• Maintain accurate laboratory records and notebooks.
• Analyze experimental data, prepare reports, and manage laboratory information systems.

Laboratory Management and Safety

• Manage inventory and order supplies.
• Prepare reagents and solutions, calibrate equipment, and ensure compliance with HTA, JACIE, and GCP guidelines.

Training and Collaboration

• Train students and staff on laboratory procedures and equipment use.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including biologists and engineers.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Technical Skills: Hands-on experience with cell culture and molecular biology techniques; proficiency with lab equipment such as centrifuges, flow cytometers, and microscopes.
• Personal Attributes: Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and capacity to work independently and collaboratively.

We offer the following benefits:

• 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.