OXGENE is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Laboratory Automation Scientist to lead the development, maintenance, and optimization of automated liquid handler methods and related peripherals. As the primary automation expert in the company, you will play a key role in translating manual assays into automated workflows, developing in-house software tools, and ensuring the smooth operation of our automated systems. This role is ideal for a driven individual with a strong background in laboratory automation, a passion for innovative technology, and excellent problem-solving skills. You will collaborate closely with various departments across the company, providing technical expertise and support to ensure that our automation capabilities meet the high standards so strong communication and team working skills are essential. Co-ordinating with stakeholders throughout the company to ensure the safe and efficient running of laboratory automation platforms including; Laboratory Automation Development and Management: Lead the programming, maintenance, and enhancement of automated liquid handler methods and peripherals, ensuring their efficient and reliable operation. Perform day-to-day management of automated equipment, including troubleshooting, routine maintenance, and system verification. Develop and implement standard operating procedures and training materials for automated methods, ensuring compliance with regulatory and company standards. Collaboration and Technical Support: Work closely with stakeholders across the company to convert manual assays into automated methods, providing technical expertise and guidance. Offer training and ongoing support to scientific staff on the use and maintenance of automated systems, promoting effective and consistent use across teams. Project Management and Documentation: Independently manage automation projects, including planning, timeline estimation, and presenting findings to relevant teams. Contribute to the continuous improvement of automation workflows and software infrastructure, ensuring they align with the company’s research and development objectives. Author and maintain high-quality documentation, such as SOPs, risk assessments, and project reports. Technical Skills and Innovation: Utilize programming skills (preferably Python, NodeJS) to develop, troubleshoot, and optimize automated workflows. Continuously explore and implement innovative solutions to improve automation processes and support the company’s technological advancements. Experience / Education: BSc or MSc in life sciences or a related discipline. Relevant laboratory experience, preferably in a commercial or industrial setting. Demonstrable experience in assay development, programming, and troubleshooting of automated liquid handlers (e.g., Hamilton STAR series). Knowledge / Skills / Abilities: Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively across various departments. Excellent problem-solving abilities and proficiency in relevant programming languages. Ability to work independently, manage projects, and meet deadlines. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to create and maintain high-quality documentation. Experience with laboratory management software, Linux/UNIX, and version control (e.g., Git) is desirable. Desirable: Familiarity with GxP and/or ISO 9001 standards. Knowledge of procurement, contracts, and supply chain management. Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELN). Familiarity with rapid prototyping and programmable devices. Salary Range: £38,000 pa - £45,000 pa Job Location We have offices in the UK and USA. This role will be located at The Oxford Science Park, four miles south east of Oxford, with parking and good public transport links from Oxford. Our UK office address is: The Oxford Science Park, Medawar Centre, Robert Robinson Avenue, Oxford, OX4 4HG. How to Apply Please complete the application form on our website and attach your CV.Your CV should include evidence that demonstrates how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. This may include experience gained in employment, education, or during career breaks. Internal applicants: please apply directly to Human Resources, copying your line manager into the email. Sending us your personal information means that you are asking us to hold your data on file, and understand that we will only keep it for as long as we need it to comply with the Data Protection Act. Closing Date This advert will close as soon as sufficient applications have been received. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing the opportunity. Information for International Candidates By the start of employment, the successful candidate must have, and be able to demonstrate, permission to work in the UK. Unfortunately, as a small company, we have very limited ability to sponsor employees under skilled worker Visa route, and we are unable to sponsor this for international graduates / candidates. MORE ABOUT OXGENE Company benefits OXGENE offers a generous benefits package: 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 with service and 8 UK bank/public holidays per annual leave year and a day off on your birthday Pension with salary exchange and generous employer contribution Discretionary performance related annual bonus Group life cover Group Income Protection Glasses vouchers Employee assistance programme Private medical insurance with additional wellness benefits (as a benefit in kind) Free tea, coffee, fruit-juice, fruit and biscuits, with kitchen facilities Company culture and environment OXGENE offers a friendly and diverse working environment: Opportunity to make a difference in a promotion-from-within environment Regular whole-company presentations, including regular scientific updates Regular social events, including TGI Friday activities Annual staff away days Diversity and equality of opportunity We provide all our staff with a welcoming and inclusive workplace that enables and empowers everyone to develop and deliver professional excellence. We recognise that diversity is vital for innovation and creativity and value each individual’s contribution. OXGENE’s decision to employ and promote individuals will be determined by personal merit and the application of criteria related to the role. The ability to perform the role will be the primary consideration on entry into employment and to successfully pass probation. The application process When we receive your application, we will look at it carefully to see if you are right for the role. We aim to contact all successful candidates within 2-3 weeks of application. If you haven’t received a telephone call or an e-mail from us in this time, it means you have not been selected on this occasion. Due to the number of applications, we receive, we are unable to provide feedback for candidates who are not selected for interview. We thank you for your application and interest in OXGENE. Pre-employment screening All appointments will be subject to standard pre-employment screening, as applicable to the post. This will include right-to-work in the UK, proof of identity and references. Information for recruitment agencies We only accept CVs from our partnership recruitment agencies.