At a Glance
- Tasks: Support sequencing operations and perform laboratory procedures in a fast-paced research environment.
- Company: Join the innovative Ellison Institute of Technology, tackling humanity's greatest challenges.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel allowance, enhanced holiday pay, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for skill development and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact on infectious disease diagnosis and treatment through cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline and at least 1 year of lab experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we’re on a mission to translate scientific discovery into real world impact. We bring together visionary scientists, technologists, engineers, researchers, educators and innovators to tackle humanity’s greatest challenges in four transformative areas:
- Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology
- Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture
- Climate Change & Managing CO₂
- Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
This is ambitious work - work that demands curiosity, courage, and a relentless drive to make a difference. At EIT, you’ll join a community built on excellence, innovation, tenacity, trust, and collaboration, where bold ideas become real-world breakthroughs.
Welcome to the Pathogen Project: Within this ecosystem, the Pathogen Mission exemplifies EIT’s commitment to transformative science. It aims to revolutionise the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases by leveraging whole genome sequencing (WGS)-based metagenomic and pathogen-specific analytical tools. This remit includes the development of a decentralised, sample-to-answer sequencing diagnostic platform for infectious diseases, enabling rapid and accurate analysis of patient samples without prior assumptions.
Your Role: At EIT we are seeking an experienced and detailed orientated Sequencing Technician to support sequencing operations within the Pathogen Applications Team. This is a laboratory-based role focused on supporting routine sequencing workflows and laboratory operations. Working closely with the Sequencing Operations Scientist and wider Applications Team, you will perform standardised laboratory procedures including sample receipt, QC workflows, sequencing preparation, inventory management, and laboratory documentation.
This role would suit a candidate with a strong undergraduate laboratory background who is looking to develop hands-on experience in sequencing and molecular biology within a fast-paced research environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Support routine sequencing workflows following established protocols
- Perform laboratory procedures including:
- Sample receipt and logging
- Sample QC and nucleic acid quantification
- qPCR assays
- Library preparation support
- Sequencing run preparation
- Microbiology culture and culture enumeration
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory records and sample tracking documentation
- Assist with sample management and traceability processes
- Support inventory management including:
- Stock checks
- Reagent preparation
- Consumable ordering
- Assist with flow cell tracking and sequencing consumables management
- Support laboratory housekeeping and equipment maintenance activities
- Work in accordance with laboratory health and safety and HTA requirements where applicable
- Assist with basic microbiology and molecular biology workflows as required
- Escalate laboratory or sequencing issues to senior staff when identified
Requirements
Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. molecular biology, microbiology, biomedical sciences or related field)
- Minimum 1 year of practical laboratory experience gained through placements, internships, or employment
- Basic molecular biology laboratory skills
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures accurately
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Basic IT skills including spreadsheets and laboratory documentation
Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
- Experience with qPCR or nucleic acid quantification methods
- Exposure to sequencing workflows or sequencing technologies
- Experience working in a regulated or high-throughput laboratory environment
- Familiarity with sample tracking or laboratory record systems
- Basic microbiology laboratory experience
Key Attributes
- Organised and reliable
- Strong attention to detail
- Willingness to learn and develop new laboratory skills
- Team-oriented with a collaborative approach
- Able to work effectively in a fast-paced laboratory environment
- Proactive with a positive “can-do” attitude
Benefits
Salary: £Competitive + travel allowance + bonus
Enhanced holiday pay
Pension
Life Assurance
Income Protection
Private Medical Insurance
Hospital Cash Plan
Therapy Services
Perk Box
Electric Car Scheme
Working Together – What It Involves:
You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary. In certain cases, we can consider sponsorship, and this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford (or be willing to relocate). This is a fully onsite role in Oxford.
Sequencing Technician - Applications Team (Pathogen) in Oxford employer: Ellison Institute of Technology
At the Ellison Institute of Technology, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through hands-on experience in cutting-edge research, competitive benefits including private medical insurance and a supportive work environment that encourages curiosity and teamwork. Located in Oxford, our vibrant community is at the forefront of transformative science, making it an inspiring place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the field of pathogen research.
Contact Details:
Ellison Institute of Technology Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sequencing Technician - Applications Team (Pathogen) in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to the Ellison Institute of Technology. Attend relevant events or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the Pathogen Project and its goals. Familiarise yourself with whole genome sequencing and related technologies. Show us that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who’s genuinely excited about making a difference in infectious disease diagnostics.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your lab skills! If you’ve got access to a lab, brush up on your molecular biology techniques, especially qPCR and sample management. Being hands-on will give you the confidence to impress during practical assessments or discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the EIT team. Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Sequencing Technician - Applications Team (Pathogen) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for molecular biology and sequencing shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the work we do at EIT and how you can contribute to our mission.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to align their background with what we’re looking for in a Sequencing Technician.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on your key achievements and experiences that relate to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ellison Institute of Technology
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your molecular biology and microbiology knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like qPCR and nucleic acid quantification, as well as any relevant lab experiences you've had. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since this role requires a strong focus on accuracy, prepare examples that highlight your attention to detail. Think of times when your meticulousness made a difference in your lab work or helped avoid errors in procedures.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
EIT values collaboration, so be prepared to talk about your experience working in teams. Share stories that illustrate how you’ve contributed to group projects or supported colleagues in a lab setting, emphasising your proactive attitude.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the Pathogen Project and the sequencing workflows. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also gives you a chance to demonstrate your curiosity and eagerness to contribute to their mission.
