Development Scientist

Development Scientist | Sequencing Development & Automation

Oxford Science Park, Oxford

Job Description

At Oxford Nanopore Technologies, we’re on a mission to enable the analysis of any living thing, by anyone, anywhere. Our groundbreaking sequencing platform delivers real-time analysis, scales from pocket to population, and sequences native DNA or RNA at any read length, from short to ultra-long.

Headquartered at the Oxford Science Park with a global presence across the US, Europe, and APAC, we bring together experts in nanopore science, molecular biology, informatics, engineering, electronics, and manufacturing.

The Role

We are seeking a Development Scientist to join the Sequencing Development & Automation team. This role will focus on developing, optimizing, and validating workflows that support population genomics initiatives, enabling large-scale sequencing using Oxford Nanopore technology. You will work across laboratory and automation environments to ensure workflows are robust, scalable, and ready for high-throughput applications.

Main Responsibilities

• Support the design, development, and optimizing of sequencing workflows and library preparation methods for population genomics projects.
• Execute and help validate automated protocols on liquid handling platforms (e.g. Hamilton, Tecan, DreamPrep) under guidance.
• Perform hands‑on experimental work, including QC assays, library preparation, and sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technologies platforms.
• Carry out routine data analysis and contribute to interpretation and reporting of results to assess workflow performance.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and follow established SOPs, health & safety procedures, and quality control standards.
• Assist with troubleshooting experimental or automation‑related issues and contribute ideas for workflow improvements.

What We’re Looking For

• BSc or equivalent experience in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or a related discipline
• Hands‑on experience with automation, liquid handling, or robotic systems
• Experience writing automation methods and scripting/programming (e.g. Python, Linux, XML)
• Strong experience in NGS sample preparation and DNA extraction
• Practical laboratory experience including PCR, pipetting, normalisation, and thermocyclers
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and collaboration skills
• High attention to detail and strong understanding of laboratory best practices

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with attractive bonus
• Generous pension contributions
• Private healthcare
• A beautiful working environment within landscaped grounds at the Oxford Science Park
• The opportunity to contribute to technology that is transforming genomics worldwide

If you are looking to apply your skills to make a real difference to humankind, we would love to hear from you. Apply today.

Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person\’s gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job.

About Us

Oxford Nanopore Technologies: Our goal is to bring the widest benefits to society through enabling the analysis of anything, by anyone, anywhere. The company has developed a new generation of nanopore‑based sensing technology for faster, information‑rich, accessible and affordable molecular analysis. The first application is DNA/RNA sequencing, and the technology is in development for the analysis of other types of molecules including proteins. The technology is used to understand and characterise the biology of humans and diseases such as cancer, plants, animals, bacteria, viruses, and whole environments. With a thriving culture of ambition and strong innovation goals, Oxford Nanopore is a UK‑headquartered company with global operations and customers in more than 125 countries.