About this role
Job Summary
The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) is building the next generation of AI-driven, autonomous laboratories where experimental science, robotics, and machine learning integrate to design, execute, and optimise experiments dynamically. A critical purpose of our Autonomous Labs (AutoLabs) programme is to generate self driving workflows, particularly in workflows and deployment environments without automation scientists readily available.
We are seeking a highly capable, hands-on Senior Automation Laboratory Scientist to play a central role in this transformation.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
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Execute, optimise and design wet-lab workflows
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Translate scientific objectives into structured, reproducible, automation-ready protocols
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Read scientific literature and independently attempt, execute and troubleshoot protocols found in the literature in the wet lab
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Operate and support laboratory automation platforms, including liquid handling systems
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Lead the design, development, and deployment of a deployable automation platform, increasing robustness and reliability and enabling use by lab techs and scientists without a lab automation scientist in the loop
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Collaborate closely with automation engineers, AI researchers, and interdisciplinary scientific teams
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Maintain rigorous documentation, quality control, and biosafety compliance standards
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Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
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A PhD in a STEM discipline or equivalent industry experience
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Strong hands-on experience from a wet-lab environment, with a genuine desire to do hands-on work at the bench
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Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot laboratory workflows
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Experience translating experimental goals into structured, reproducible protocols
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High attention to detail and commitment to experimental quality
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Scientific curiosity that is open to any area of science (beyond just biology)
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A can-do, build-it-yourself attitude and comfort working in a fast-evolving, technology-driven laboratory environment
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Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Experience (in rough order of desirability)
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Operating automated laboratory systems (e.g., liquid handlers; experience with Hamilton and OpenTrons is particularly useful)
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Strong familiarity and hands-on experience with molecular biology workflows, particularly sequencing and antimicrobial resistance testing
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Familiarity with structured data capture
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Exposure to programming (e.g., Python) and machine learning concepts
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Team lead experience
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You must be able to commute to Oxford 5 days a week for this role.
Benefits
We offer the following salary and benefits:
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Enhanced holiday pay
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Pension
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Life Assurance
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Income Protection
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Private Medical Insurance
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Hospital Cash Plan
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Therapy Services
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Perk Box
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Electric 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!