Overview
Research Assistant/Post Doc - Plant Biology Institute at the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) in Oxford. The role involves contributing to transformative plant science research, with opportunities to translate lab work into real-world and commercial solutions aligned with EIT's humane endeavours.
About EIT
The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) aims to have a global impact by reimagining how science and technology translate into end-to-end solutions. EIT focuses on four high-impact areas: Health, Medical Science and Generative Biology; Food security and Sustainable agriculture; Clean Energy Generation and Storage; and Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. A 300,000-square-foot research facility at the Oxford Science Park is planned to open in 2027, featuring advanced labs and collaborative spaces to strengthen partnerships with the University of Oxford.
About The Plant Biology Institute
Headed by Professor Steve Kelly, the Plant Biology Institute develops impactful and commercially sustainable plant science solutions to improve global food production and planetary health. The Institute gathers world-class researchers to expand the frontiers of plant science and accelerate discovery to global impact, including efforts to enhance food production while improving climate and ecosystem outcomes.
Areas of Exploration
* Improved plant productivity, both indoors and outside
* Reduced reliance on inputs including water, fertilisers, pesticides, and herbicides
* Novel decarbonised plant-based production platforms for food and medicines
* Advanced technologies that speed up discovery and deployment in plants
Key Responsibilities
* Design and execute research experiments in one of the following topic areas: Biological nitrogen fixation in plants; Novel decarbonised plant-based production platforms for food and medicines; Advanced technologies for plant transformation and genome editing
* Identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives
* Maintain accurate records, analyse data and use appropriate statistical tools to contribute to progress reports, scientific publications, and intellectual property protection
Collaboration and Communication
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to incorporate cutting-edge research techniques into experiments
* Present scientific work at seminars within the lab and at external meetings
* Assist in mentoring graduate students and other members of the research group where appropriate
* Collaborate with experts across the EIT ecosystem in AI, automation, and generative biology
Research Designed for Impact
* Draft scientific papers and contribute to preparation of publications
* Assist in translating scientific results into commercial opportunities aligned with EIT\'s humane endeavours
* Identify opportunities for IP creation and assist in patent protection and impact delivery
Requirements
Essential Skills, Qualifications & Experience
* Completed PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., Plant Biology, Molecular Biotechnology, Biotechnology)
* Strong research background in relevant areas for the post
* Understanding of, or interest in, the path to impact for the research area and consideration of user feedback and market research in experimental design
* Proven ability to conduct independent research to high standards and publish in peer-reviewed journals
* Ability to build internal and external relationships and collaborate across disciplines
* Strong problem-solving and communication skills
* Excellent written communication and report writing skills
Benefits
* Newly constructed, state-of-the-art laboratories and growth facilities
* Collaborative research environment with opportunities for publication, conferences, spin-out generation, and leadership development
* Salary and benefits including competitive salary, enhanced holiday pay, pension, life assurance, income protection, private medical insurance, and other health and wellbeing benefits
Terms of Appointment
* Right to work permanently in the UK and willingness to travel as necessary
* Live in or within easy commuting distance of Oxford
* Occasional longer hours and cross-time-zone work during peak periods due to the global nature of the programme
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