Head of Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (Generative Biology Institute)

Ellison Institute of Technology; Oxford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000

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 looking for a Head of Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting to manage our Flow Cytometry and Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) facility, responsible for developing workflows, maintaining and calibrating equipment, and managing resource allocation. This critical role involves overseeing high-quality analytical and sorting capabilities to support cutting-edge research in synthetic biology, molecular design, and microbial genome synthesis. The ideal candidate will lead a talented team, drive advancements in flow cytometry methodologies, and ensure that the facility meets the evolving needs of GBI researchers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage the flow cytometry and FACS (Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting) facility within GBI, ensuring high-quality analytical and sorting capabilities to support research in synthetic biology, molecular design, and microbial genome synthesis.
• Develop and implement advanced flow cytometry workflows for characterising engineered cells and microbial populations.
• Ensure the maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of flow cytometers and cell sorters, maximising performance and instrument uptime.
• Recruit, train, and line manage the flow cytometry team, ensuring expertise in sample preparation, instrument operation, and data analysis.
• Manage the financial and equipment resources of the facility, ensuring cost-effective procurement and efficient use of consumables.
• Plan and implement improvements in flow cytometry methodologies.
• Generate and manage collaborations within the organisation and externally, enabling multidisciplinary research through advanced cytometry techniques.

Qualifications & Experience:

• An advanced degree in Life Sciences, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology, or a related field, with extensive expertise in flow cytometry and cell sorting.
• Extensive experience in FACS and flow cytometry, including in an industry or research setting, with a proven ability to develop and optimise analytical and sorting workflows.
• Proven track record of leading and managing complex cytometry projects, supporting applications in synthetic biology, microbial genome synthesis, and molecular evolution.
• Skilled in building and leading teams, promoting autonomy while fostering a high-performance and collaborative environment.
• Ability to drive scientific innovation in flow cytometry and single-cell analysis, aligning facility capabilities with the broader objectives of the research programme.
• Track record of effectively leading and developing people and teams, ensuring a strong knowledge-sharing and training culture.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse internal and external stakeholders and translate complex cytometry concepts into actionable research insights.

Strong technical expertise in:

• Flow cytometry techniques, including spectral flow cytometry.
• High-throughput cell sorting for microbial and mammalian cell populations.
• Sample preparation techniques for synthetic biology and molecular evolution studies.
• Flow cytometry data analysis, including experience with key software.

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.
• This position is fully office based, requiring 5 days on site per week.
• During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.