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- Tasks: Join our Chip Research team to develop and test innovative sensing platforms.
- Company: Oxford Nanopore Technologies is a leader in real-time DNA/RNA analysis technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy an attractive bonus, generous pension, private healthcare, and a competitive salary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on science and technology while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Materials/Engineering/Chemistry/Physics; 2+ years in research; lab experience required.
- Other info: Hands-on role with opportunities for innovation and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Oxford Nanopore Technologies is headquartered at the Oxford Science Park outside Oxford, UK, with satellite offices and a commercial presence in many global locations across the US, APAC and Europe. Oxford Nanopore employs from multiple subject areas including nanopore science, molecular biology and applications, informatics, engineering, electronics, manufacturing and commercialisation. The management team has a track record of delivering disruptive technologies to the market. Oxford Nanopore’s sequencing platform is the only technology that offers real-time analysis, in fully scalable formats from pocket to population scale, that can analyse native DNA or RNA and sequence any length of fragment to achieve short to ultra-long read lengths. Our goal is to enable the analysis of any living thing, by anyone, anywhere!
We are looking for a scientist with expertise in material science and experience of using ONT platforms to join the Chip Research team. This position will be focussed on the development and testing of future products, with a particular focus on current and voltage sensing platforms.
The role will primarily focus on cleanroom processing, with elements of wafer fabrication, materials science, and both wet and dry electrical testing. This position is part of a broader project aimed at implementing high-density sensing platforms.
A graduate-level background (or equivalent) in Physics, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Bioengineering, Chemistry, or a related field is required. Experience working with MEMS structures and nanofabrication is highly desirable. Strong knowledge of photolithography and micro/nanofabrication techniques is essential. Additionally, an understanding of surface properties in microfluidic systems—ideally supported by practical measurement experience—would be advantageous.
What We’re Looking For…
- Essential Degree in Materials/Engineering/Chemistry/Physics or related field (Masters preferable) or equivalent experience
- 2+ years experience in research/development environment
- Experience of working safely within a lab environment
- Experience of working with microfluidic devices
- Solid understanding of the fundamentals of surface science/material properties
- Hands-on experience of materials testing such as contact angle, microscopy SEM etc.
- Strong communication skills
- A hands-on approach
Desirable
- Experience with Python scripts and Spotfire analysis
- Cleanroom experience
Role and Responsibilities
Working under supervision and as part of a team, you will lead efforts to demonstrate new methods of array fabrication that can be transferred to emerging platforms, while also testing and evaluating the resulting structures. You will be responsible for exploring the potential of new materials, conducting material and surface analysis, performing characterisation, and contributing to design discussions. Additionally, you will test and assess the impact of implemented changes on platform performance, and be expected to report and present your findings.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Design and fabrication of sensor related structures in a cleanroom environment to include photolithography processes
- Characterisation of materials and assembly processes using a range of techniques (contact angle, SEM, profilers, optical microscopy)
- Characterisation of surface and bulk properties of materials used for sensor manufacture
- The viability of new and novel materials for sensor layers upon new platforms
- Writing and editing electrical testing scripts
- Data analysis around relevant aspects of electrical testing
- Regular and timely communication between project team members to achieve optimal outcomes and performance
- Preparing technical reports, test procedures, process specifications and product documentation
- Providing input into experimental designs and method/protocol development
We offer outstanding benefits to include an attractive bonus, generous pension contributions, private healthcare and an excellent starting salary. If you are looking to utilise your skills to really make a difference to humankind, then consider joining our team and 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.
Platform Research Scientist employer: Oxford Nanopore Technologies Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Oxford Nanopore Technologies Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Platform Research Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Oxford Nanopore Technologies' products and their unique features. Understanding the specifics of their sequencing platform and how it differs from competitors will help you articulate your interest and knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Oxford Nanopore on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which you can leverage in your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest advancements in materials science and nanofabrication techniques. Being able to discuss recent developments or breakthroughs in these areas during your interview will demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your hands-on experience with cleanroom processes and microfluidic devices. Be ready to discuss specific projects or challenges you've faced, as this practical knowledge is crucial for the role and will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Platform Research Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in materials science, nanofabrication, and any work with microfluidic devices. Use specific examples that demonstrate your hands-on skills and knowledge of photolithography and electrical testing.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the company’s mission. Mention your experience with ONT platforms and how it aligns with their goal of enabling analysis of any living thing. Be sure to include your understanding of surface properties and materials testing.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you have worked on projects related to sensor fabrication or materials analysis, summarise these in your application. Highlight any specific techniques you used, such as SEM or contact angle measurements, and the outcomes of your work.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since strong communication skills are essential for this role, provide examples of how you have effectively communicated findings in previous roles. This could include presentations, technical reports, or collaboration within a team setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Nanopore Technologies Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with materials science, microfluidic devices, and nanofabrication techniques. Highlight specific projects where you've applied your knowledge of photolithography and electrical testing.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect questions that assess your ability to troubleshoot and innovate in a lab environment. Share examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them, particularly in cleanroom settings.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you may need to present findings to team members or stakeholders who may not have a technical background.
✨Prepare for Team Collaboration Questions
Since the role involves working closely with a team, be ready to discuss your experiences in collaborative environments. Share examples of how you've contributed to team success and how you handle feedback and differing opinions.
