Scientist In Advanced Genome Technologies – Plant Biology Institute

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) is seeking talented scientists to join its Plant Biology Institute in Oxford, United Kingdom, and contribute to innovative research aimed at transforming plant science and sustainable agriculture.

The Ellison Institute of Technology is an interdisciplinary research organisation focused on translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions for some of humanity's most significant challenges.

Its research spans four key areas:

• Health, Medical Science and Generative Biology
• Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture
• Climate Change and Managing CO₂
• Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

EIT brings together scientists, engineers, technologists, and innovators to develop solutions that can progress from laboratory research to large-scale real-world impact.

Led by Professor Steve Kelly, the Plant Biology Institute at EIT Oxford aims to advance plant science and develop commercially sustainable solutions for global food production and planetary health.

Its research focuses on improving plant productivity, reducing dependence on agricultural inputs, developing sustainable plant-based production platforms, and accelerating the discovery and application of new plant technologies.

Researchers will have access to advanced laboratory and plant growth facilities and opportunities to collaborate with experts in artificial intelligence, automation, and generative biology.

EIT is recruiting scientists at different experience levels to contribute to its Advanced Genome Technologies and next-generation plant transformation programmes.

The successful candidates will design and conduct experiments to develop improved methods for genetic manipulation, plant regeneration, and DNA/RNA delivery into plant cells.

• Design, conduct, and optimise experiments in advanced genome technologies and plant biotechnology.
• Develop and test innovative approaches to genetic manipulation, plant regeneration, and nucleic acid delivery.
• Interpret experimental data and ensure research findings are robust, reproducible, and scientifically rigorous.
• Deliver research objectives through defined, stage-gated milestones.
• Evaluate experimental outcomes and adapt research strategies when hypotheses do not produce promising results.
• Contribute to the development of new methods and technologies for plant engineering.
• Work with multidisciplinary teams to incorporate advanced research techniques into experimental programmes.
• Collaborate with experts in artificial intelligence, automation, and generative biology.
• Present findings at internal seminars, external scientific meetings, and research discussions.
• Support and mentor other members of the research group where appropriate.
• Participate in laboratory discussions and share emerging developments in genome engineering and plant biotechnology.
  
  Contribute to scientific publications and the generation of intellectual property.
• Identify opportunities for patent protection and technology development.
• Help translate research discoveries into commercially relevant solutions with measurable real-world impact.
• Conduct research in accordance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and best scientific practices.
• Maintain high standards of research integrity and experimental quality.

• A completed PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, or another relevant discipline.
• Strong experimental design, execution, and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to test diverse and ambitious scientific hypotheses efficiently.
• Flexibility to reassess experimental approaches and change direction when results do not support the initial hypothesis.
• Commitment to producing reliable, reproducible scientific outcomes.

Experience in one or more of the following areas will be advantageous.