Director of Research Infrastructure (Generative Biology Institute)

Ellison Institute of Technology; Oxford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

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 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 seeking a Director of Research Infrastructure to oversee and manage the research infrastructure across all of our laboratory facilities. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, scientific capability, and safety across the organisation. In this critical role, you will provide strategic leadership to core research support functions such as mass spectrometry, flow cytometry, and automation, while shaping the long-term vision for laboratory operations in collaboration with senior leadership. You will leverage your deep technical expertise to support GBI’s research ambitions, manage resources efficiently, and drive collaborations that advance our cutting-edge work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage the research infrastructure across all GBI laboratory facilities, ensuring the highest standards of operational excellence, scientific capability, and safety.
• Provide strategic leadership for core research support functions, including mass spectrometry, flow cytometry, and automation, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of GBI researchers.
• Develop and implement, with senior leadership, a long-term vision for laboratory operations, integrating cutting-edge technologies, automation, and best practices to enhance scientific productivity.
• Provide expert scientific input and strategic guidance, leveraging deep technical expertise and a strong publication record to support the research ambitions of GBI.
• Recruit, mentor, and manage senior technical leads, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team.
• Manage financial and equipment resources across laboratory functions, ensuring sustainability, cost-efficiency, and optimal investment in equipment.
• Determine, obtain, and manage the resource requirements for laboratory infrastructure, including staffing structures, procurement, and maintenance of shared equipment.
• Oversee compliance and regulatory adherence, ensuring all laboratory activities align with health and safety regulations, biosafety standards, and legal requirements.
• Drive collaborations across GBI, within EIT and externally, ensuring laboratory facilities support world-leading research in synthetic biology, chemistry, and life sciences.

Qualifications & Experience:

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline, such as synthetic biology, chemistry, bioanalytical sciences, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in laboratory management and research infrastructure leadership, with a proven track record of managing complex, multi-disciplinary scientific facilities.
• A strong publication record in their field, demonstrating deep scientific expertise and credibility in relevant fields.
• Proven expertise in managing and developing technical teams, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
• Ability to drive continuous improvements in research infrastructure, integrating new technologies and methodologies to enhance scientific capabilities.
• Strong technical expertise in:
• Advanced analytical and bioanalytical techniques (e.g., mass spectrometry, flow cytometry, high-throughput sequencing).
• Laboratory automation and high-throughput screening technologies.
• Research operations, compliance, and regulatory standards.
• Track record of building and managing collaborations, both internally and with external academic and industry partners, to enhance research capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with the ability to engage with senior researchers, technical teams, and external stakeholders to shape the future of the organisation’s laboratory infrastructure.

We offer the following salary and benefits:

• 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.