This laboratory-based position encompasses end-to-end experimental workflows, including sample preparation, target enrichment and amplification, library preparation, and sequencing. You will support the development of strategies for comprehensive, high-sensitivity sequencing across a large number of targets, using approaches such as targeted amplification, hybridisation, and related techniques. The role encourages creative problem-solving, with opportunities to propose, explore, and evaluate new ideas.

You will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team of microbiologists, molecular biologists, engineers, and data scientists to develop assays for integration into an automated, device-based platform. Drawing on your experience, you will help define experimental strategies, design and execute studies, and contribute to advancing the application of sequencing technologies in pathogen detection and related areas.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimise end-to-end sequencing assays (targeted and semi-targeted)
• Execute experiments, analyse and interpret data, and contribute ideas for improvement
• Troubleshoot complex technical challenges across a range of sample types
• Maintain clear documentation to support reproducibility of experimental work
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across disciplines to progress shared goals
• Contribute to scientific discussions and decision-making as projects evolve

Requirements

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, biochemistry, or a related field
• Experience using molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR, RT-PCR, nucleic acid extraction, library preparation)
• Experience developing and optimising PCRs and/or related experimental workflows
• Ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and adapt methods as needed
• Experience with DNA/RNA sequencing data
• Strong experimental design and data interpretation skills
• Good organisation, record-keeping, and communication skills

Desirable

We recognise that strong candidates may not meet every criterion below. Experience in any of the following would be beneficial:

• Multiplex PCR assay development, particularly for sequencing applications
• Enrichment or capture methods for pathogens or pathogen-derived nucleic acids
• Work with bacteria, fungi, viruses, or other pathogens
• Handling clinical samples
• RNA-based workflows (e.g. transcriptomics, viral genomics)
• Background in virology
• Exposure to metagenomics workflows
• Biochemistry knowledge relevant to assay development (e.g. enzyme optimisation, reaction conditions, assay development)

Key Attributes

Scientific and Technical

• Enjoys exploring new ideas and approaches to experimental challenges
• Curious and motivated to solve complex problems
• Able to balance scientific rigour with speed and pragmatism

Working Style and Collaboration

• Takes ownership of work while valuing collaboration and shared success
• Proactive and supportive team member, with a willingness to contribute beyond immediate responsibilities
• Comfortable working in a dynamic research environment, with support from colleagues

Benefits

Our 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. For this role, we would expect someone to be fully on site in Oxford. You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford (or be willing to relocate).