Senior Automation Scientist
About this job
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 • Execute, optimise and design wet-lab workflows • Translate scientific objectives into structured, reproducible, automation-ready protocols • Read scientific literature and independently attempt, execute and troubleshoot protocols found in the literature in the wet lab • Operate and support laboratory automation platforms, including liquid handling systems • 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 • Collaborate closely with automation engineers, AI researchers, and interdisciplinary scientific teams • Maintain rigorous documentation, quality control, and biosafety compliance standards Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Experience • A PhD in a STEM discipline or equivalent industry experience • Strong hands-on experience from a wet-lab environment, with a genuine desire to do hands-on work at the bench • Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot laboratory workflows • Experience translating experimental goals into structured, reproducible protocols • High attention to detail and commitment to experimental quality • Scientific curiosity that is open to any area of science (beyond just biology) • A can-do, build-it-yourself attitude and comfort working in a fast-evolving, technology-driven laboratory environment Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Experience (in rough order of desirability) • Operating automated laboratory systems (e.g., liquid handlers; experience with Hamilton and OpenTrons is particularly useful) • Strong familiarity and hands-on experience with molecular biology workflows, particularly sequencing and antimicrobial resistance testing • Familiarity with structured data capture • Exposure to programming (e.g., Python) and machine learning concepts • Team lead experience You must be able to commute to Oxford 5 days a week for this role. Benefits We offer the following salary and benefits: Enhanced holiday pay Pension Life Assurance Income Protection Private Medical Insurance Hospital Cash Plan Therapy Services Perk Box 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!