Development Scientist

Oxford Nanopore Technologies is headquartered at the Oxford Science Park outside Oxford, UK, with satellite offices and a commercial presence in many global locations across the US, APAC and Europe.

Oxford Nanopore's sequencing platform is the only technology that offers real-time analysis, in fully scalable formats from pocket to population scale, that can analyse native DNA or RNA and sequence any length of fragment to achieve short to ultra-longread lengths. Our goal is to enable the analysis of any living thing, by anyone, anywhere

We are looking for a highly motivated, diligent and experienced individual to join the Late development Team as a Development Scientist.

The Details...
This exciting and challenging role is responsible for improving, developing and introducing new Sequencing Kit components to support the improvement and expansion of the current product range. Our sequencing development team responsible for the development,specification and performance of our sequencing and sample preparation kits on our sequencing platforms (e.g. MinION and PromethION). These products are designed to handle a large variety of DNA and RNA sample types, and are specific to customers' particularrequirements. Reporting to the Sequence Development Manager, you will support the development of our sequencing products and play a central role in effecting the continuous improvement/optimisation of our existing products.

Hands-on experience in four or more of the following areas is required:

- Experience in molecular biology including PCR, qPCR, isothermal amplification
- Experience in standard nucleic acid handling techniques and characterization of DNA/RNA
- Characterisation of DNA/RNA and proteins.
- Execution of biochemical/biophysical assays (e.g. RT-PCR and/or other fluorescence and plate-based techniques).
- Experience with assay design, development and optimisation.

Responsibilities include:

- Development, optimisation, and verification of sequencing kits and sample preparation workflows
- Development of Biochemical and biophysical assays.
- Operation of our Nanopore range of sequencing devices and associated software.
- Data analysis (from basic data manipulation to more complex bioinformatic pipelines).
- Documenting protocols and processes
- Technical training of junior team members
The role will offer the opportunity to use the information garnered to positively impact the sequencing performance of current and future Sequencing Kit products. The role is primarily lab-based and will also involve analysis and documentation.

What We're Looking For...
- A higher degree in chemical biology, biochemistry or molecular biology, ideally with several years of experience in industry or research environment
- A good working knowledge of nucleic acids and proteins, and experience handling these
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills. The role will involve constant interaction within a multi-disciplinary team and with other groups in research and manufacturing
- Strong attention to detail and a high level of organisation
- Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and experience in developing and following SOPs
- Experience in training other team members is an advantage

Training will be given and, as such, a willingness to learn and develop is essential.

Applications are encouraged from highly motivated individuals who enjoy taking on new challenges, are quickly adaptable in an exciting and fast-paced environment, and who perform well under pressure.

We offer outstanding benefits to include an attractive bonus, generous pension contributions, private healthcare and an excellent starting salary. Based within beautiful, landscaped surroundings with tree-lined walks, water features and a lake, all of whichmake for a wonderful working environment.

li-jc1