Head of Mass Spectrometry (Generative Biology Institute)

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 Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford aims to overcome two major challenges in making biology engineerable: 1) the ability to precisely synthesize entire genomes, and 2) understanding which DNA sequences will create biological systems that perform desired functions. Solving these challenges will unlock the potential of biology for transformative solutions in health, sustainability, agriculture, and more. GBI will house 30 groups and over 300 researchers, supported by cutting-edge facilities and sustained funding to address global challenges and advance biology engineering.

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

GBI is looking for a Head of Mass Spectrometry to oversee and manage our Mass Spectrometry team, responsible for experimental design, data generation, and the optimal use of mass spectrometry instrumentation. This key role involves delivering high-quality analytical support to accelerate research goals, developing and implementing cutting-edge analytical workflows, and ensuring robust data analysis. The successful candidate will lead a skilled team, manage resources, and drive continuous improvements in mass spectrometry methodologies to support multidisciplinary research and innovation across GBI’s scientific programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• To lead the Mass Spectrometry facility for EIT's Gen Bio Institute and other scientific programmes, to deliver high-quality analytical support that accelerates research objectives.
• To develop and implement analytical workflows for the detection, identification, and quantification of biomolecules, metabolites, and chemical compounds.
• To lead and direct mass spectrometry-based projects, ensuring robust experimental design, high-quality data generation, and reproducible analysis.
• To utilise computational tools and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, or similar) for data analysis, enabling deeper insights from mass spectrometry data.
• To ensure the maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of mass spectrometers and associated instrumentation, maximising performance and uptime.
• To recruit, train, and line manage the mass spectrometry team, ensuring expertise in sample preparation, data acquisition, and analysis.
• To manage the financial and equipment resources of the facility, ensuring cost-effective procurement and optimal utilisation of instruments and consumables.
• To plan and implement improvements in mass spectrometry methodologies, adopting emerging technologies and best practices to enhance analytical capabilities.
• To determine, obtain, and manage the resource requirements for the facility, including staffing, instrumentation, and computational infrastructure for data analysis.
• To generate and manage collaborations within the organisation and externally, supporting multidisciplinary research through advanced mass spectrometry techniques.

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field, such as bioanalytical chemistry, proteomics, metabolomics, or mass spectrometry.
• Extensive experience in mass spectrometry, including in an industry or research setting, with a proven ability to optimise analytical workflows.
• Proven track record of leading and managing complex mass spectrometry projects, from experimental design to data interpretation.
• Skilled in building and leading teams, fostering autonomy and professional growth while ensuring high-performance standards.
• Ability to drive scientific innovation in mass spectrometry, aligning technical advancements with broader organisational objectives.
• Strong technical expertise in complex data analysis, including proficiency in mass spectrometry- specific software.
• Best practices in data management and infrastructure for large-scale mass spectrometry studies.
• Track record of effectively leading and developing people and teams, promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to engage a diverse internal and external audience, translating complex analytical concepts into actionable insights.

We offer the following salary and benefits:

• Salary:  Competitive salary on offer
• 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.