At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and test microfluidic systems for DNA extraction from pathogens.
- Company: Join EIT Oxford, a leader in innovative solutions for global challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy enhanced holiday pay, private medical insurance, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team making a real impact on public health.
- Qualifications: PhD in Engineering or related field with expertise in microfluidics required.
- Other info: Must be eligible to work in the UK and willing to travel.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford tackles humanity’s greatest challenges by turning science and technology into impactful global solutions. Focused on areas like health, food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, clean energy, and AI-driven government innovation, EIT Oxford blends groundbreaking research with practical applications to deliver lasting results. A cornerstone of EIT Oxford’s 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.
The Pathogen Mission highlights EIT’s transformative approach, using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Oracle’s cloud technology to create a global pathogen metagenomics system. This initiative aims to improve diagnostics, provide early epidemic warnings, and guide treatments by profiling antimicrobial resistance. The goal is to deliver certified diagnostic tools for widespread use in labs, hospitals, and public health.
EIT Oxford fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, valuing diverse expertise to drive sustainable solutions to humanity’s enduring challenges. We are seeking a Scientist, Microfluidics to support the research and product development of EIT Oxford's Pathogen Programme. The lab-based role involves designing, fabricating, and testing microfluidic flow cells for the extraction of DNA and other relevant biological substances from microbial pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other eukaryotes) from clinical and other sources to inform the diagnosis and treatment of infectious disease in humans.
The role will involve working with other scientists and engineers in small teams to deliver the project milestones. The postholder includes prototyping fluidic array structures for the movement of small fluid volumes between reaction and purification chambers, fabrication of these arrays for evaluation purposes, designing and performing tests to evaluate the performance of the microfluidic array for DNA extraction and manipulation. In addition, working with external partners to assist in the scale-up of successful array designs.
Ideal candidates will have expertise in microfluidics, MEMs fabrication, analytical chemistry, and assay development. In addition, they will have a track record of working with small, innovative teams to test, iterate, and embed new capabilities. Experience working with biological samples and DNA would be beneficial.
Key Responsibilities:
- Drive the design, development, and optimisation of microfluidic systems for DNA extraction from biosamples, and the subsequent purification and DNA manipulation.
- Design and execute experiments for device characterisation, fluid dynamics analysis, and performance validation.
- Translate product requirements into technical specifications for microfluidic components.
- Implement protocols for fabrication, assembly, and testing of microfluidic devices.
- Mentor junior scientists and engineers; provide technical guidance and project leadership.
- Contribute to intellectual property generation, including patents and technical disclosures.
- Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations for internal stakeholders and external collaborators.
Qualifications & Experience:
- PhD or equivalent in Engineering, Physics, Bioengineering, or related field with specialisation in microfluidics, MEMS, or lab-on-a-chip systems.
- Deep understanding of microfluidic principles, including fluid dynamics, laminar flow, diffusion, and surface tension effects in microscale systems.
- Hands-on experience with microfabrication techniques such as soft lithography, photolithography, CNC micro milling, injection moulding, or 3D microprinting.
- Proven ability to design and execute experiments to characterize microfluidic systems (e.g., flow profiling, pressure measurements, mixing efficiency, droplet generation).
- Skilled in integrating microfluidics with sensors, optics, electronics, or automation platforms.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
- Familiarity with biological or biochemical applications in microfluidics (e.g., single-cell analysis, droplet microfluidics, bead handling, point-of-care diagnostics, organ-on-chip).
- Experience in troubleshooting and optimizing fluidic workflows in complex systems.
- Familiarity with microscopy and imaging techniques relevant to microfluidics (e.g., fluorescence, brightfield, confocal).
- Experience of developing technologies within regulatory frameworks for in vitro diagnostics within the UK, EU, or USA.
We offer the following salary and benefits: Salary: 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, 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.
Scientist, Microfluidics - Pathogen employer: Ellison Institute of Technology
Contact Detail:
Ellison Institute of Technology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist, Microfluidics - Pathogen
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in microfluidics and pathogen diagnostics. Follow relevant journals, attend webinars, and engage with online communities to stay updated on cutting-edge research and technologies that EIT Oxford might be using.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of microfluidics and biotechnology. Attend conferences or local meetups where you can connect with scientists and engineers who work in similar areas. This could lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with microfabrication techniques during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on, particularly those involving DNA extraction or manipulation, as this will demonstrate your practical skills and relevance to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative spirit by highlighting past experiences where you successfully worked in small teams. Emphasise your ability to mentor others and contribute to project milestones, as teamwork is a key aspect of the role at EIT Oxford.
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist, Microfluidics - Pathogen
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in microfluidics, MEMS fabrication, and analytical chemistry. Use specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your skills in designing and testing microfluidic systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the mission of EIT Oxford. Discuss how your background aligns with their focus on innovative solutions for health and diagnostics, and mention any experience you have with collaborative projects.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your hands-on experience with microfabrication techniques and your understanding of fluid dynamics. Mention any specific projects where you successfully integrated microfluidics with sensors or other technologies.
Showcase Teamwork and Leadership: Since the role involves mentoring junior scientists and working in small teams, provide examples of your leadership experience and how you've contributed to team success in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ellison Institute of Technology
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Make sure to highlight your knowledge in microfluidics, MEMS fabrication, and analytical chemistry during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects or experiences where you successfully designed or optimised microfluidic systems.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Skills
Since the role involves working in small teams, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively with others. Share examples of how you've worked with scientists and engineers to achieve project milestones, showcasing your teamwork and communication skills.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your troubleshooting abilities and how you optimise fluidic workflows. Prepare to discuss challenges you've faced in past projects and how you overcame them, particularly in complex systems.
✨Familiarise Yourself with EIT's Mission
Research the Ellison Institute of Technology and its Pathogen Programme thoroughly. Understanding their goals and how your expertise aligns with their mission will help you articulate why you're a great fit for the team.