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- Tasks: Lead innovative chemistry projects and design cutting-edge compounds for transformative biological solutions.
- Company: Join the Ellison Institute of Technology, a leader in impactful global research.
- Benefits: Enjoy enhanced holiday pay, private medical insurance, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health and sustainability through groundbreaking scientific research.
- Qualifications: PhD in organic chemistry or related field with extensive hands-on experience.
- Other info: Collaborative culture that values creativity, inclusivity, and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) tackles humanity\’s greatest challenges by turning science and technology into impactful global solutions. Focused on areas led by a faculty of world experts, EIT seeks to solve the world\’s most challenging problems across four high-risk, high-reward, high-impact humane endeavours: Health, Medical Science and Generative Biology; Food security and Sustainable agriculture; Clean Energy Generation and Storage; and Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
A cornerstone of EIT 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) 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 fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, valuing diverse expertise to drive sustainable solutions to humanity\’s enduring challenges.
We are seeking an experienced and self-driven Senior Scientist to lead the Chemistry and Chemical Biology function within GBI. As the primary chemistry expert, you will play a critical role in designing and executing small molecule, probe, and compound synthesis to support a wide range of experimental protocols in synthetic biology, genomics, and molecular engineering. You will work independently to establish and maintain robust workflows, while collaborating closely with research groups to design and execute strategies tailored to novel and emerging scientific questions.
Responsibilities
- To design and synthesis of small molecule amino acid analogues and closely related compounds, synthesis of bio-orthogonal reagents as chemical probes and synthesis of other biologically active compounds and biomolecules in support of internal research programmes
- To establish and manage core chemistry workflows and infrastructure, including reagent libraries, purification methods, and compound characterisation
- To develop and optimise synthetic routes, troubleshoot experimental challenges, and scale up reactions where needed
- To support development of analytical workflows and novel biological assays
- To manage chemistry lab related research equipment such as LCMS, HPLC, flash chromatography systems
- To manage all aspects of chemical safety and compliance within the chemistry space, including documentation, risk assessments, and chemical inventory
- To work closely with research groups to integrate chemical approaches into broader workflows
- To independently prioritise and execute multiple projects, providing scientific leadership and technical insight
- To evaluate and adopt new technologies, tools, and methodologies that expand the capabilities of the chemistry function
- To identify and realise areas where chemistry and chemical biology could impact on GBI\’s mission
- To lead at the interface of chemistry and biology and to proactively develop chemical approaches in biological systems as relevant to GBI\’s mission
Qualifications
- A PhD (or equivalent experience) in organic chemistry, chemical biology, or a related discipline.
- Extensive hands-on experience in organic chemistry, including multistep synthesis, purification, and compound characterisation.
- Proven ability to work independently in a chemistry setting, with strong problem-solving skills and scientific judgement.
- Experience developing and running bespoke chemical protocols tailored to exploratory research questions.
- Ability to optimise synthetic routes where necessary and to produce robust and reproducible synthetic protocols
- Good understanding of mass spectrometry, including LCMS, MS/MS, and proteomics
- Understanding of key biological processes such as transcription and translation
- Understanding of some basic molecular biology techniques such as molecular cloning, protein expression, purification and analysis
- Strong understanding of chemical safety regulations and best practices in a laboratory setting.
- Excellent organisational and record-keeping skills, with a commitment to high standards of data integrity and reproducibility.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to convey complex chemical concepts to non-specialist audiences.
- A proactive and adaptable mindset, comfortable navigating a fast-paced, evolving research environment.
Benefits
- 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, or be willing to relocate to 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
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Science
Industries
- IT Services and IT Consulting
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Senior Scientist (Chemistry and Chemical Biology) - Generative Biology Institute employer: Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford
Contact Detail:
Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Scientist (Chemistry and Chemical Biology) - Generative Biology Institute
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their mission and how your skills align with their goals. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and have your own questions ready to show your interest!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along a portfolio or examples of your previous work that highlight your skills in chemistry and chemical biology. We love seeing how you’ve tackled challenges and contributed to innovative solutions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are eager to make an impact in the field of generative biology.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Scientist (Chemistry and Chemical Biology) - Generative Biology Institute
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Senior Scientist role. Highlight your expertise in organic chemistry and any relevant projects you've worked on that showcase your problem-solving abilities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the work at the Generative Biology Institute and how your background makes you the perfect fit for the team. Don't forget to mention your collaborative spirit!
Showcase Your Research Experience: In your application, be sure to detail your hands-on experience with multistep synthesis and compound characterisation. We want to see how you've tackled challenges in the lab and what innovative solutions you've come up with.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford
✨Know Your Chemistry Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your organic chemistry knowledge, especially multistep synthesis and compound characterisation. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used, like LCMS or HPLC, and how they relate to the role at the Generative Biology Institute.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled experimental challenges in the lab. Think about times when you had to optimise synthetic routes or troubleshoot issues, and be ready to explain your thought process during these situations.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration and Communication
Since this role involves working closely with research groups, highlight your experience in collaborative projects. Be prepared to discuss how you've communicated complex chemical concepts to non-specialists, as this will show your ability to bridge the gap between chemistry and biology.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
The research environment can be fast-paced and ever-changing. Share instances where you've had to adapt quickly to new technologies or methodologies, and express your enthusiasm for embracing change and innovation in your work.
