Automation Scientist (6-month Contract)

Automation Scientist (6-month Contract)

At Oxford Nanopore, we're looking for an Automation Scientist to help transform cutting-edge research into robust, scalable automated workflows. This is an exciting opportunity for a scientist who combines strong molecular biology expertise with hands-on laboratory automation experience and a passion for improving research efficiency through innovative technology.

Working closely with molecular biologists, assay developers and technology teams, you will design, develop and optimise automated workflows that accelerate experimentation, improve data quality and reproducibility, and enable the rapid evaluation of new sequencing technologies.

The Role

As a subject matter expert in laboratory automation, you will play a key role in expanding our automation capabilities across research and development. You will identify opportunities to increase throughput, streamline laboratory processes and deliver innovative automated solutions that support scientific discovery.

Key Responsibilities

- Design, develop and optimise automated molecular biology workflows using laboratory automation platforms, including Hamilton and Opentrons.
- Translate manual laboratory methods into robust, scalable automated processes suitable for high-throughput experimentation.
- Independently plan, execute and analyse automation development experiments using data-driven approaches.
- Troubleshoot automation hardware, software and workflow challenges to ensure reliable platform performance.
- Partner with scientists and technology teams to identify automation opportunities and deliver practical solutions.
- Generate, analyse and interpret experimental data to drive workflow optimisation and technical decision-making.
- Document methods, protocols and validation activities to ensure reproducibility and effective knowledge sharing.
- Evaluate new technologies and contribute to the introduction of new automation capabilities.
- Train and mentor colleagues on automation best practices and support adoption of automated workflows.
- Present technical findings and project updates to stakeholders across the organisation.
- Support laboratory safety, quality standards and continuous improvement initiatives.

What We're Looking For

Essential Requirements

- BSc or MSc (2:1 or above) in Life Sciences or a related discipline.
- Hands-on experience with laboratory automation platforms and liquid handling systems.
- Experience developing automated workflows using Hamilton liquid handling systems.
- Strong understanding of molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA manipulation, PCR, library preparation and sequencing workflows.
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
- A proactive and innovative mindset with a passion for improving scientific workflows.

Desirable Experience

- PhD in a Life Sciences discipline.
- Automation-specific training or certification.
- Experience developing automated NGS, genomics or synthetic biology workflows.
- Industrial experience with nanopore sequencing technologies.
- Understanding of protein biochemistry.
- Knowledge of nanopore sequencing workflows and applications.
- Experience using Python or similar programming languages for data analysis.

About You

You are a curious and driven scientist who thrives on solving complex technical challenges. You take ownership of your work, collaborate effectively across disciplines and are motivated by finding new ways to improve how science is done. You enjoy turning ideas into practical solutions and want to have a direct impact on the development of next-generation sequencing technologies.

Equal Opportunities

Oxford Nanopore is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and assess applicants solely on their skills, experience and ability to perform the role. We are committed to equal opportunities regardless of gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation.