Laboratory Technician - MDLS

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford’s purpose is to have a global impact by fundamentally reimagining the way science and technology translate into end-to-end solutions and delivering these solutions in programmes and platforms that respond to humanity’s most challenging problems.

EIT Oxford will ensure scientific discoveries and pioneering science are turned into products for the benefit of society that can have high-impact worldwide and, over time, be commercialised to ensure long-term sustainability.

Led by a faculty of world experts, EIT seeks to solve the world’s most challenging problems across four high-risk, high-reward, high-impact humane endeavours: Health, Medical Science and Generative Biology; Food security and Sustainable agriculture; Clean Energy Generation and Storage; and Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.

EIT Oxford is investing significant resources in a new world-class research and development facility in the Oxford Science Park. Set for completion in 2027, the state-of-the-art campus includes 300,000 sq ft of research laboratories, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and educational and meeting spaces. Together, they create the perfect environment for EIT Oxford experts to take ground-breaking ideas from research to broad implementation. The new facility will further EIT’s current partnership with the University of Oxford and become the new home for Ellison Scholars.

EIT Oxford is committed to cultivating a community where excellence is achieved through collaboration, trust, innovation and tenacity. We foster an environment where everyone’s experience and expertise are valued. We are curious and resilient in our efforts to drive long-term, sustainable innovation to meet humanity’s most enduring challenges.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Laboratory Technician to support the daily running of a multidisciplinary research lab at the MDLS EIT (first year based at the Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford). The role will focus on maintaining and coordinating servicing of core laboratory equipment (including ultra-low temperature freezers, freeze dryers, pumps, centrifuges, electrophysiology recording systems, dishwashers, and HPLC/FPLC/LC-MS) in liaison with our in-house workshops and external engineers.

The lab uses a broad range of techniques, including molecular cloning, protein biochemistry, synthetic chemistry, and biophysical measurements. The postholder should be comfortable working in this diverse technical environment, quick to learn new instruments, and proactive in ensuring the smooth running of laboratory activities. The ideal candidate will be practical, well-organised, and responsive, with a strong sense of urgency, excellent communication skills, and a hands-on approach to troubleshooting and repair.

Hours of work will generally be Monday to Friday, core hours normally 09:00 – 18:00 and will be site based.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure that all equipment is properly stored, calibrated, and maintained
• Assist with equipment setup, basic troubleshooting, and coordinate service contracts and engineer callouts when needed.
• Defrost ultra-low temperature (ULT) and –20 °C freezers on a regular schedule.
• Support equipment and consumable purchases by obtaining quotations, liaising with finance teams, and maintaining records of orders.
• Use of lab equipment for the preparation of samples; Organise the storage of samples as required, monitoring laboratory conditions.
• Oversee the exit procedure for departing lab members, ensuring materials are documented, labelled, and organized for long-term storage.
• Maintain accurate records of equipment maintenance, calibration, freezer defrosting, service visits, and safety checks.
• Provide basic training or guidance for new group members on safe use of equipment.
• Ensure that laboratory safety standards are adhered to, including proper handling and disposal of waste materials.
• Ensure that all reagents and materials are correctly labelled, stored, and easily accessible for workflows.
• Disinfect and sterilise laboratory tools, consumables, and areas according to established protocols.
• Keep the laboratory clean and organised, including regularly cleaning communal benches, instruments, and common spaces.
• Compliance with safety and environmental regulations following all safety protocols and that safety equipment (e.g., personal protective equipment, eyewash stations) is properly maintained and accessible.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• Be qualified in a related field up to BSc (e.g. Chemical Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Genetics, Biophysics)
• Experience in laboratory maintenance and familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and safety protocols.

Key Attributes:

• Proactive and solution-oriented mindset, with the ability to prioritise urgent tasks and resolve issues promptly.
• Strong attention to detail and a focus on organization and cleanliness.
• Ability to follow instructions and maintain accurate records.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new equipment and protocols.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.
• Practical, hands-on approach with the initiative to work independently when needed.
• Ability to manage time efficiently and handle multiple tasks.
• Basic understanding of laboratory safety practices and handling of biological materials.
• Comfortable with lifting and moving supplies and equipment.
• Reliability and a sense of responsibility for maintaining a safe and efficient laboratory environment.

Benefits

We offer the following benefits:

• Enhanced holiday pay
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Private Medical Insurance
• Hospital Cash Plan
• Therapy Service
• 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 be eligible to work in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary.
• You must be based in, or within easy commuting distance of EIT and the Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford
• Some flexibility in working hours may be required to respond to urgent situations