Assay Development Scientist
Location: Oxford, UK
Contract: Full-time, on-site
The Role
We’re looking for an Assay Development Scientist to join our lab team in Oxford. This is a practical, lab-based role focused on developing and improving a biological assay as it moves from early research into a more established workflow.
You’ll spend most of your time at the bench, working with fluorescence microscopy and supporting experiments that help improve assay performance and reliability. You’ll work closely with colleagues across assay development, imaging, and data, and you’ll be expected to keep clear records and follow quality processes.
What You’ll Do
* Plan and run lab experiments that support assay development
* Improve fluorescence labelling methods for biological samples
* Carry out fluorescence microscopy using agreed lab protocols
* Help refine sample preparation and imaging workflows
* Review and interpret experimental results
* Support basic verification and validation work (e.g. repeatability, sensitivity)
* Keep accurate lab notes and records
* Help write and update SOPs and lab protocols
* Work in line with internal quality and safety procedures
* Collaborate with colleagues across lab, imaging, and data teams
* Take on other reasonable lab duties as needed
Background We’re Looking For
Education
* BSc or MSc in a relevant life science subject
* PhD welcome but not required
Experience
* Practical lab experience in assay development or similar experimental work
* Hands-on experience with fluorescence microscopy
* Experience working in a quality-controlled or regulated lab environment
* Industry or translational lab experience is a plus
Skills
* Confident working independently in the lab
* Careful and consistent with experimental work and documentation
* Experience with fluorescence labelling and sample preparation
* Comfortable following and improving lab protocols and SOPs
* Able to look at data, spot issues, and discuss results clearly
* Good understanding of basic assay development concepts
* Familiarity with image analysis tools is helpful
* Any basic data analysis or scripting experience is a bonus, not essential