Generative Biology Institute
Overview
The vision of the Generative Biology Institute (“GBI”) is to lay the foundations for engineering biology, and unlock its potential for good. To achieve this, we must overcome two key challenges. First, we need the ability to write in the natural language of biology, enabling the rapid and scalable synthesis of entire genomes with precision. Second, we must understand what to write—determining which DNA sequences will generate biological systems that perform the desired functions. Addressing these challenges will allow us to harness the full power of biology to create transformative solutions across health, agriculture, clean energy and more.
Part of the Ellison Institute of Technology, Oxford (“EIT”), GBI is led by founding Director Jason Chin. It will house 30 groups and more than 300 researchers at scale, focused on solving the two critical challenges in making biology engineerable and applying the solutions to addressing the global challenges encapsulated in EIT’s Humane Endeavors.
GBI will have sustained and substantial funding to support the unique scale and ambition of its ground-breaking vision for engineering biology. GBI researchers will also be supported by cutting edge facilities including mass spectrometry, flow cytometry, sequencing, automation, scientific computing, bioinformatics, and machine learning. GBI will also have access to substantial compute resources that can be leveraged to further accelerate progress. The environment at GBI will allow researchers to undertake ambitious, long-term, collaborative research, and we will actively support the translation of research to commercial applications, where appropriate.
GBI will commence operations in 2025. The team will work from a purpose-made facility in the Oxford Science Park, currently under construction. Once complete, this state-of-the-art facility will include more than 40,000 m² of research laboratory and office space.
About Ellison Institute of Technology
Ellison Institute of Technology
The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) is committed to addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges by reimagining how science and technology transform into solutions that make a global impact. With a focus on innovation across high-stakes areas including health and medical science, food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, clean energy, and government innovation in an AI-driven era, EIT integrates pioneering research with practical implementation to deliver high-impact, sustainable results.
At the core of EIT’s vision is a significant investment in a world-class research and development facility at the Oxford Science Park, set to open in 2027. This 300,000-square-foot campus will feature cutting-edge research laboratories, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and collaborative educational spaces. These resources will bolster EIT’s partnership with the University of Oxford, creating an environment where groundbreaking research transitions seamlessly into real-world applications. The new facility will also serve as the home for Ellison Scholars, advancing EIT’s mission to generate societal benefit through science.
Job Summary
EIT is looking for an enthusiastic Research Assistant to join the GBI team. This is an ideal position for someone who is looking to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting. The Research Assistant will support ongoing research projects within GBI, assist in the development of laboratory capabilities, contribute to the preparation of scientific reports and presentations.
Responsibilities
* Assist in scientific studies and experiments by collecting and analysing data under the guidance of the senior scientists
* Perform routine laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, setting up equipment, and maintaining lab safety protocols
* Analyse experimental data using software tools. Prepare reports and presentations of findings
* Support the Research Group in the development of written materials, including publications, conference presentations and laboratory protocols
* Carry out desk-based research to establish the state of the art in scientific areas related to the work of GBI
* Stay current on scientific advancements and technologies related to the field of synthetic biology through journals, conferences, and other academic resources
* Provide general day to day support to the wider team and any other duties requested of you by your group leader
Essential & Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience
* At least a Master’s degree in a relevant scientific field preferably Biochemical Engineering (other disciplines e.g. Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Computer Science)
* Previous experience in working in a research laboratory and preferably with computational design
* Ability to work effectively in a high-growth, fast-paced, dynamic environment.
* Highly organised with an ability to manage multiple projects.
* Excellent oral and written communication skills, inter-personal skills, and the ability to work with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds.
* Experience with problem solving involving multiple internal and external stakeholders
Salary and Benefits
* Salary: Competitive salary on offer
* Enhanced holiday pay
* Pension
* Life Assurance
* Income Protection
* Private Medical Insurance
* Hospital Cash Plan
* Therapy Services
* Perk Box
* Electrical Car Scheme
Why work for EIT
At the Ellison Institute, we believe a collaborative, inclusive team is key to our success. We are building a supportive environment where creative risks are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. Valuing emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience, we encourage people to be curious and to have a shared commitment to excellence. Join us and make an impact!
Terms of Appointment
* You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary.
* You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford.
* During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.
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