Overview
The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford is building a world-class R&D facility at the Oxford Science Park to drive sustainable, high-impact innovation in health, food security, climate change, and AI, transforming breakthrough science into global solutions. The Plant Biology Institute, headed by Professor Steve Kelly, is a key part of EIT Oxford. The institute aims to develop impactful and commercially sustainable solutions for improving global food production and planetary health through pioneering plant science research.
We are seeking detail-oriented and proactive Laboratory Technicians to provide essential laboratory and experimental support within our Plant Sciences research programmes. This role involves hands-on responsibility for cultivating experimental plants, preparing reagents, and supporting a range of molecular biology, tissue culture, and microbial techniques. The successful candidate will assist with data collection, maintain accurate records, and uphold rigorous laboratory safety and maintenance standards. With responsibilities spanning inventory management, equipment upkeep, and sample handling, this position is integral to the smooth operation of research workflows and the delivery of high-quality scientific outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
* Grow and maintain experimental plants under controlled conditions (growth chambers).
* Prepare reagents, buffers and transformation constructs as required.
* Prepare plant and microbial samples, including culture media, inoculations, and controlled environment setups.
* Assist with and perform standard biochemical assays.
* Maintain and propagate tissue culture materials under sterile conditions. Assist in the transformation of plant tissues.
* Assist in the culture and maintenance of plant or microbial cells in a variety of systems. Support upstream and downstream processing steps including inoculation, growth monitoring, and harvesting of cultures, sampling extraction and preparation for analysis.
* Molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid prep etc to support genetic characterization of plant and microbial strains.
* Prepare sterile media and maintain aseptic conditions for cell-based cultures. Operate and monitor small scale bioreactors or fermenters.
Laboratory Support & Maintenance
* Keep the laboratory clean and organised, including regularly cleaning benches, instruments, and common spaces.
* Ensure that all equipment is properly stored, calibrated, and maintained. Assist with equipment setup and basic troubleshooting.
* Disinfect and sterilise laboratory tools, consumables, and areas according to established protocols.
* Ensure that laboratory safety standards are adhered to, including proper handling and disposal of waste materials.
* Comply with GMO regulations, biosafety procedures and plant quarantine protocols.
Data Collection & Record Keeping
* Accurately record experimental procedures and data in laboratory notebooks or digital systems.
* Support data analysis through organisation of datasets, labelling of samples, and contribution to experimental summaries.
Inventory Management
* Assist in managing inventory of reagents, consumables, and laboratory supplies in accordance with EIT procedures.
* Keep accurate records of inventory levels, assist with ordering new stock, and ensure that supplies are replenished in a timely manner.
* Ensure that all reagents and materials are correctly labelled, stored, and easily accessible for workflows.
Sample & Equipment Handling
* Assist with the transport and preparation of biological samples, ensuring that proper documentation and labelling procedures are followed.
* Deliver and retrieve samples and materials between different laboratory sections as needed.
* Handle and deliver consumables or samples to designated researchers or technical teams.
Essential Skills, Qualifications & Experience
* Qualification in a related field up to BSc (e.g. Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Genetics).
* Experience in laboratory maintenance and familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and safety protocols.
* Strong attention to detail and a focus on organization and cleanliness.
* Ability to follow instructions and maintain accurate records.
* Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.
* Ability to manage time efficiently and handle multiple tasks.
* Basic understanding of laboratory safety practices and handling of biological materials.
* Comfortable with lifting and moving supplies and equipment, as well as standing for extended periods.
Salary & Benefits
* Competitive salary + bonus + travel allowance
* Enhanced holiday pay
* Pension
* Life Assurance
* Income Protection
* Private Medical Insurance
* Hospital Cash Plan
* Therapy Services
* Electric 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. We value emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience, and we encourage curiosity with 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.
Seniority level
* Entry level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Science
Industries
* Research Services
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