Head of Lab Systems and Engineering

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford’s purpose is to have a global impact by fundamentally reimagining the way science and technology translate into end-to-end solutions and delivering these solutions in programmes and platforms that respond to humanity’s most challenging problems. EIT Oxford will ensure scientific discoveries and pioneering science are turned into products for the benefit of society that can have high-impact worldwide and, over time, be commercialised to ensure long-term sustainability.

Led by a faculty of world experts, EIT Oxford seeks to solve the world’s most challenging problems across four high-risk, high-reward, high-impact humane endeavours: health and medical science; food security and sustainable agriculture; climate change and clean energy; and government innovation in an era of artificial intelligence. EIT Oxford is investing significant resources in a new world-class research and development facility in the Oxford Science Park. Set for completion in 2027, the state-of-the-art campus includes 300,000 sq ft of research laboratories, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and educational and meeting spaces. Together, they create the perfect environment for EIT Oxford experts to take ground-breaking ideas from research to broad implementation.

The new facility will further EIT’s current partnership with the University of Oxford and become the new home for Ellison Scholars. EIT Oxford is committed to cultivating a community where excellence is achieved through collaboration, trust, innovation and tenacity. We foster an environment where everyone’s experience and expertise are valued. We are curious and resilient in our efforts to drive long-term, sustainable innovation to meet humanity’s most enduring challenges.

We are seeking a forward-thinking Head of Lab Systems and Engineering to lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of our laboratory technology and infrastructure. This is a key leadership role that ensures our researchers have access to state-of-the-art systems, advanced automation, and robust IT frameworks. You will drive the engineering strategy, optimize lab processes, and foster a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement.

• Technology Leadership: Design and deliver advanced laboratory technology, IT systems, and engineering solutions that align with research needs and organisational goals.
• Infrastructure Management: Oversee the planning, implementation, and maintenance of laboratory IT infrastructure, including data systems, networks, and digital platforms.
• Operational Efficiency: Ensure the maintenance, calibration, and lifecycle management of laboratory equipment and technology to guarantee maximum uptime and performance.
• Collaboration: Partner with research leaders, IT, and external vendors to deliver scalable and future-ready lab technology and infrastructure solutions.
• Compliance and Security: Ensure laboratory systems meet all regulatory, health, safety, and data security standards while driving best practices for operational excellence.
• Innovation: Identify and evaluate emerging lab technologies and IT innovations to enhance research capabilities and improve operational workflows.

• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of laboratory technology, IT infrastructure, automation platforms, and engineering best practices.
• Leadership: Proven experience leading technical teams and managing complex technology and infrastructure projects.
• IT Systems: Strong knowledge of laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data storage, cloud computing, and networking within a scientific environment.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot complex systems, anticipate challenges, and deliver innovative solutions.
• Project Management: Strong skills in planning, prioritizing, and delivering large-scale technology and infrastructure projects on time and within budget.
• Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal skills to engage cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Experience: Significant experience managing laboratory operations, engineering systems, and IT infrastructure in a research-intensive or technical environment.

• Experience working in research-intensive and talent dense environments or multidisciplinary scientific institutions.
• Familiarity with automation, robotics, and advanced data acquisition systems.
• Understanding of regulatory compliance (e.g., GLP, ISO standards) in laboratory environments.
• Experience managing large-scale procurement, equipment lifecycle planning, and vendor relationships.
• Ability to translate technical complexity into actionable strategies for non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience with cybersecurity protocols and data integrity best practices in scientific research environments.

We offer the following salary and benefits:

• Salary: Competitive, depending on experience + travel allowance + bonus
• 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!

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. During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.