At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop software for analysing biological data and improving scientific workflows.
- Company: Join Oxford Biotherapeutics, a pioneering biotech firm focused on cancer treatment.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, generous pension, training budget, and team-building events.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: BSc or MSc in Computer Science or Bioinformatics; experience with biological data required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About Oxford Biotherapeutics (OBT)
Oxford Biotherapeutics (OBT) is a clinical‑stage biotechnology company developing innovative antibody‑based therapeutics for the treatment of cancer.
You will contribute directly to the pre‑clinical development of our immuno‑oncology pipeline.
Our proprietary OGAP® platform, the world’s largest cancer‑specific membrane protein library enables the discovery of novel, highly tumour‑specific antigens for first‑in‑class ADC, Bispecific T‑cell Engager (BITE®), and CAR‑based therapeutics.
Our lead asset, OBT076, is in Phase 1b clinical development, supported by a strong internal and partnered pipeline with leaders such as Roche, GSK, Bristol Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Zymeworks.
Introduction to the role
We are seeking a Scientific Software Engineer to design, build, and evolve applications and systems for scientific data interrogation and analysis, with a strong focus on biological and bioinformatics data workflows.
This role sits at the intersection of software engineering, bioinformatics, and data science, supporting research and drug discovery through robust, scalable software solutions.
This is a highly hands‑on role where you will work closely with bioinformaticians, data scientists, and biologists to develop tools that enable the exploration and interpretation of complex biological datasets.
You will play a key role in improving scientific workflows through better data access, automation, and system integration.
The position requires someone who can work independently, take ownership of systems end‑to‑end, and proactively identify opportunities where software can enhance the way science is conducted across the organisation.
This role is primarily on‑site at the Oxford Science Park, with an expectation of at least four days per week in the office to support close collaboration with scientific teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Application Development
- Design and develop internal applications and web‑based tools for interrogating biological and biomedical data.
- Build user interfaces using Java Script / Type Script and React.
- Develop applications, services, and APIs using . NET.
- Build integrations to external APIs and data providers (commercial, public, and internal scientific resources).
- Deliver maintainable, well‑tested, production‑quality software suitable for a research‑critical environment.
- Data & Database Engineering
- Build data‑access layers from existing scientific datasets.
- Collaboration, Ownership & Delivery
- Work closely with bioinformaticians and data scientists to co‑develop applications and AI‑powered tools.
- Operate effectively within Agile development methodologies, participating in sprint planning, refinement, and reviews.
- Use Jira for backlog management, task tracking, and delivery planning.
- Take ownership of initiatives from initial idea through delivery, adoption, and long‑term maintenance.
- Proactively identify gaps, inefficiencies, or opportunities where new tools, systems, or integrations would benefit scientists.
- Mentor junior developers and scientists in software engineering good practice.
- Required Skills & Experience
- BSc or MSc in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience working with biological, biomedical, or life‑science data.
• Strong, hands‑on experience with
- . NET
- Java Script / Type Script and React
- Working knowledge of Python
- Proven experience working within Agile development methodologies, including use of Jira.
- Proven ability to design, build and maintain production‑quality software systems.
- Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and drive development proactively.
- Strong communication skills and experience collaborating in cross‑disciplinary scientific teams.
- Solid grounding in software engineering fundamentals including version control, testing, documentation, and maintainability.
Desirable Experience
- Experience with Microsoft Azure or other cloud platforms (AWS, GCP).
- Experience with graph databases and graph‑based data modelling.
- Experience contributing to AI/ML‑enabled tools in a scientific or data‑driven environment.
- Experience mentoring others or acting as a technical lead or point of reference.
- Experience with C#
Benefits Offered
- Private health care (Bupa)
- Health Cash Plan
- Generous pension scheme with potential employer contribution of up to 10% (based on match contributions)
- Discretionary annual bonus scheme
- Free onsite parking
- Office snacks
- Enhanced holiday entitlement above statutory minimum plus public holidays
- Employee Referral Bonus Program
- Annual training budget for professional development
- New hire share options
- Team building events and activities
- Equal Opportunities Statement
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all employees and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
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Scientific Software Engineer employer: oxfordbiotherapeutics
Oxford Biotherapeutics (OBT) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the forefront of cancer therapeutics development. Located at the Oxford Science Park, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that fosters innovation and professional growth, alongside competitive perks such as private healthcare, generous pension contributions, and an annual training budget. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and mentorship, OBT provides a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to groundbreaking scientific advancements while enjoying a supportive workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientific Software Engineer
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like oxfordbiotherapeutics. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like oxfordbiotherapeutics!
We think you need these skills to ace Scientific Software Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show oxfordbiotherapeutics that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at oxfordbiotherapeutics.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that oxfordbiotherapeutics does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at oxfordbiotherapeutics
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at oxfordbiotherapeutics. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into oxfordbiotherapeutics's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at oxfordbiotherapeutics. This shows your passion for the industry!
