Genomics Scientist - Pathogen

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 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’re seeking a motivated Genomics Scientist to join our Genome Technologies Laboratory within the Pathogen Program. This innovation hub develops and validates cutting-edge sequencing protocols for pathogen isolates using short- and long-read platforms (Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, PacBio).

Working closely with the Lead Genomics Scientist, you’ll design and refine methods for DNA/RNA extraction, library prep, and workflow integration. You’ll thrive in a collaborative R&D environment alongside bioinformaticians and automation specialists, driving innovation that advances global health through science and technology.

Key Responsibilities:

Method Development and Optimisation

• Support the design, testing, and optimisation of experimental workflows for short- and long-read sequencing of pathogens.
• Develop and troubleshoot methods for sample preparation, nucleic acid extraction, and library construction tailored to diverse pathogen types.
• Evaluate and compare emerging sequencing technologies and chemistries for performance, cost, and scalability.
• Contribute to the development of new and improved genomic protocols to enhance accuracy, yield, and reproducibility.

Technology Integration and Collaboration

• Work closely with automation and bioinformatics teams to integrate wet-lab genomics methods into semi-automated or high-throughput pipelines.
• Support technology transfer to automation engineers, ensuring protocol compatibility with robotic platforms.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across EIT to explore innovative applications of genomics in diagnostics, surveillance, and discovery research.

Quality, Documentation, and Training

• Perform quality control on samples, libraries, and sequencing data to ensure robust and reproducible results.
• Maintain detailed laboratory documentation, protocols, and experimental records.
• Contribute to training and knowledge sharing within the Genome Technologies Lab, fostering a collaborative and learning-focused environment.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• PhD in Genomics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or equivalent experience.
• Strong hands-on experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows — including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, test, and optimise experimental protocols rather than follow pre-established kits.
• Familiarity with Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with a methodical and creative approach to laboratory challenges.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities within interdisciplinary research environments.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• Experience with PacBio or other sequencing systems.
• Exposure to automation systems or liquid handling for genomics workflows.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for basic data QC or workflow validation.
• Experience working in pathogen or clinical genomics settings under BSL-2 conditions.
• Track record of technical innovation (e.g., novel methods, publications, or technology prototypes).

Key Attributes:

• Collaborative mindset and ability to work in fast-paced environments.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Innovative and proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Adaptable and eager to learn new technologies.

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.