Ellison Institute, LLC
Oxford, Oxfordshire
At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we're on a mission to translate scientific discovery into real world impact. We bring together visionary scientists, technologists, engineers, researchers, educators and innovators to tackle humanity's greatest challenges in four transformative areas: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Climate Change & Managing CO Artificial Intelligence & Robotics This is ambitious work - work that demands curiosity, courage, and a relentless drive to make a difference. At EIT, you'll join a community built on excellence, innovation, tenacity, trust, and collaboration, where bold ideas become real-world breakthroughs. Together, we push boundaries, embrace complexity, and create solutions to scale ideas from lab to society. Welcome to the Generative Biology Institute: Led by Founding Director Jason Chin, the Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology is tackling the key challenges in making biology engineerable, and thereby releasing the unrivalled power of biology for the benefit of humanity. The vision of GBI is to lay the foundations for engineering biology, and unlock its potential for good. To achieve this, we must overcome two key challenges. First, we need the ability to write in the natural language of biology, enabling the rapid and scalable synthesis of entire genomes with precision. Second, we must understand what to write - determining which DNA sequences will generate biological systems that perform the desired functions. Addressing these challenges will allow us to harness the full power of biology to create transformative solutions across health, agriculture, clean energy and more. The Generative Biology Institute commenced operations in 2025, occupying newly renovated bespoke space in the Oxford Science Park. The team will later move to a purpose-made facility in the Oxford Science Park, currently under construction. Once complete, this state-of-the-art facility will include more than 40,000 m of research laboratory and office space. It will house over 30 groups and up to 600 employees at scale, focused on solving the two critical challenges in making biology engineerable and applying the solutions to addressing the global challenges encapsulated in EIT's Humane Endeavours. Job Summary We are building a joint experimental computational team focussed on building, training and validating multi-modal biological models. The team will: i) generate experimental perturbation and measurement data at scale, ii) build multi-modal biological models and, iii) use the experimental data they generate to train and validate the multi-modal biological models they build. In this role you will: i) perform experimental genome engineering work to generate genetic variation at scale and/or ii) design and implement scalable biological measurement over one or more modalities. Where appropriate the work will leverage the substantial automation capability within the institute. Your work will be performed under the guidance of Jason Chin. You will be part of a single team composed of AI scientists and synthetic biologists working together. We are looking for colleagues with deep expertise in genome engineering and/or quantitative phenotyping of model bacterial species such as Escherichia coli. The role requires the ability and willingness to work as part of a cross-disciplinary team at the interface of computational and wetlab biology. Our team ethos is based on mutual learning, strong peer-to-peer support, and a deep sense of scientific curiosity and ambition. This is your opportunity to be part of cutting-edge research within an institute dedicated to engineering biology at an unprecedented scale. You will be leveraging GBI's exceptional facilities, sustained funding, and collaborative environment. You will design and execute experiments, contribute to high-impact publications, and play a key role in the training and mentorship of junior researchers and students. Working at the interface of biology, AI, technology, and engineering, you will help shape GBI's vision to reimagine what's possible in biology. Key Responsibilities: Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments, including the development of novel methodologies and adaptation of existing techniques to new applications. In particular, the successful applicant will utilise genome engineering strategies in the lab to produce a diversity of microbial strains as the source of training and validation data in a high throughput fashion. In addition, they will also design and prototype a range of experimental measurement strategies for characterising these strains at scale. Collaborate with other GBI scientists from other groups expert in synthetic biology, automation, bioinformatics, -omics and machine learning, and AI scientists from the AIR institute, as required. Analyse complex datasets using computational and statistical tools, interpreting results in the context of broader research goals. Contribute intellectually to the research direction by identifying opportunities for innovation and refining research questions. Prepare and publish high-quality scientific papers, reports, presentations, and protocols. Present research at national and international conferences, seminars, and internal meetings. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within GBI, EIT, and external partners to advance complementary workstreams. Build and maintain research infrastructure, laboratory capabilities, and cutting-edge technologies. Mentor and support junior researchers, including PhD students and research assistants. Translate research findings into commercial or translational opportunities in alignment with EIT's mission. Identify and pursue opportunities for intellectual property generation and protection.Ensure research activities comply with EIT's policies, legal requirements, and best scientific practice. This list is not exhaustive and the role holder may be required to undertake additional tasks and duties commensurate with the role. Relevant, Skills and Experience: Completed a PhD in a relevant field (e.g., synthetic biology, computational biology and AI, microbial genomics, cell biology, genomics, robotics and automation, metabolomics, and proteomics.). Track record of delivering ambitious research projects to a high standard. Strong track record in research, ideally in molecular biology, synthetic biology, or related fields. Skilled in data analysis and interpretation; experience with genomic analysis, automation, or computational tools desirable. Proven ability to work independently, think creatively, and solve complex experimental problems. Experience publishing in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams. Capacity to build and sustain productive collaborations internally and externally. Resilience, adaptability, and enthusiasm for working in a fast paced, high growth research environment. Our Benefits: Annual Bonus Travel allowance Enhanced sick pay Pension - Employer contribution 7.5%, minimum employee contribution 5% Life Assurance Income Protection Private Medical Insurance as standard for you, your partner and any dependents. Including hospital Cash Plan Employee discounts Electric car scheme Nursery Salary Sacrifice scheme Cycle to Work Scheme Family Planning Neurodiversity support including advise and assessments Coaching & Therapy services Working Together - What It Involves: You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary. In certain cases, we can consider sponsorship, and this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford (or be willing to relocate).
At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we're on a mission to translate scientific discovery into real world impact. We bring together visionary scientists, technologists, engineers, researchers, educators and innovators to tackle humanity's greatest challenges in four transformative areas: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Climate Change & Managing CO Artificial Intelligence & Robotics This is ambitious work - work that demands curiosity, courage, and a relentless drive to make a difference. At EIT, you'll join a community built on excellence, innovation, tenacity, trust, and collaboration, where bold ideas become real-world breakthroughs. Together, we push boundaries, embrace complexity, and create solutions to scale ideas from lab to society. Welcome to the Generative Biology Institute: Led by Founding Director Jason Chin, the Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology is tackling the key challenges in making biology engineerable, and thereby releasing the unrivalled power of biology for the benefit of humanity. The vision of GBI is to lay the foundations for engineering biology, and unlock its potential for good. To achieve this, we must overcome two key challenges. First, we need the ability to write in the natural language of biology, enabling the rapid and scalable synthesis of entire genomes with precision. Second, we must understand what to write - determining which DNA sequences will generate biological systems that perform the desired functions. Addressing these challenges will allow us to harness the full power of biology to create transformative solutions across health, agriculture, clean energy and more. The Generative Biology Institute commenced operations in 2025, occupying newly renovated bespoke space in the Oxford Science Park. The team will later move to a purpose-made facility in the Oxford Science Park, currently under construction. Once complete, this state-of-the-art facility will include more than 40,000 m of research laboratory and office space. It will house over 30 groups and up to 600 employees at scale, focused on solving the two critical challenges in making biology engineerable and applying the solutions to addressing the global challenges encapsulated in EIT's Humane Endeavours. Job Summary We are building a joint experimental computational team focussed on building, training and validating multi-modal biological models. The team will: i) generate experimental perturbation and measurement data at scale, ii) build multi-modal biological models and, iii) use the experimental data they generate to train and validate the multi-modal biological models they build. In this role you will: i) perform experimental genome engineering work to generate genetic variation at scale and/or ii) design and implement scalable biological measurement over one or more modalities. Where appropriate the work will leverage the substantial automation capability within the institute. Your work will be performed under the guidance of Jason Chin. You will be part of a single team composed of AI scientists and synthetic biologists working together. We are looking for colleagues with deep expertise in genome engineering and/or quantitative phenotyping of model bacterial species such as Escherichia coli. The role requires the ability and willingness to work as part of a cross-disciplinary team at the interface of computational and wetlab biology. Our team ethos is based on mutual learning, strong peer-to-peer support, and a deep sense of scientific curiosity and ambition. This is your opportunity to be part of cutting-edge research within an institute dedicated to engineering biology at an unprecedented scale. You will be leveraging GBI's exceptional facilities, sustained funding, and collaborative environment. You will design and execute experiments, contribute to high-impact publications, and play a key role in the training and mentorship of junior researchers and students. Working at the interface of biology, AI, technology, and engineering, you will help shape GBI's vision to reimagine what's possible in biology. Key Responsibilities: Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments, including the development of novel methodologies and adaptation of existing techniques to new applications. In particular, the successful applicant will utilise genome engineering strategies in the lab to produce a diversity of microbial strains as the source of training and validation data in a high throughput fashion. In addition, they will also design and prototype a range of experimental measurement strategies for characterising these strains at scale. Collaborate with other GBI scientists from other groups expert in synthetic biology, automation, bioinformatics, -omics and machine learning, and AI scientists from the AIR institute, as required. Analyse complex datasets using computational and statistical tools, interpreting results in the context of broader research goals. Contribute intellectually to the research direction by identifying opportunities for innovation and refining research questions. Prepare and publish high-quality scientific papers, reports, presentations, and protocols. Present research at national and international conferences, seminars, and internal meetings. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within GBI, EIT, and external partners to advance complementary workstreams. Build and maintain research infrastructure, laboratory capabilities, and cutting-edge technologies. Mentor and support junior researchers, including PhD students and research assistants. Translate research findings into commercial or translational opportunities in alignment with EIT's mission. Identify and pursue opportunities for intellectual property generation and protection.Ensure research activities comply with EIT's policies, legal requirements, and best scientific practice. This list is not exhaustive and the role holder may be required to undertake additional tasks and duties commensurate with the role. Relevant, Skills and Experience: Completed a PhD in a relevant field (e.g., synthetic biology, computational biology and AI, microbial genomics, cell biology, genomics, robotics and automation, metabolomics, and proteomics.). Track record of delivering ambitious research projects to a high standard. Strong track record in research, ideally in molecular biology, synthetic biology, or related fields. Skilled in data analysis and interpretation; experience with genomic analysis, automation, or computational tools desirable. Proven ability to work independently, think creatively, and solve complex experimental problems. Experience publishing in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams. Capacity to build and sustain productive collaborations internally and externally. Resilience, adaptability, and enthusiasm for working in a fast paced, high growth research environment. Our Benefits: Annual Bonus Travel allowance Enhanced sick pay Pension - Employer contribution 7.5%, minimum employee contribution 5% Life Assurance Income Protection Private Medical Insurance as standard for you, your partner and any dependents. Including hospital Cash Plan Employee discounts Electric car scheme Nursery Salary Sacrifice scheme Cycle to Work Scheme Family Planning Neurodiversity support including advise and assessments Coaching & Therapy services Working Together - What It Involves: You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary. In certain cases, we can consider sponsorship, and this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford (or be willing to relocate).
University of Birmingham
City, Birmingham
Applications are welcomed from candidates in Europe and other overseas countries. Financial support for visa application fees is available, subject to eligibility and organisational policy. There are Post-doc (Research Fellow) positions available in the field of integrative structural biology, based in the group of Prof. Teresa Carlomagno at the University of Birmingham. The research group studies the functional mechanisms of proteins, including intrinsically disordered proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes by integrative structural biology. The laboratory uses and develops high-field NMR spectroscopy methods as major structural biology tool, in combination with several other techniques. The Research Fellow will work in one of the following fields: RNA metabolism, regulation of gene expression, DNA repair, signalling. The post holder will use NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography and/or Electron Microscopy, as well as Mass Spectrometry and Small Angle Scattering, to study the structure of protein-protein or protein-nucleic acids complexes and discover the mechanisms of their function and regulation. There are opportunities to develop new approaches to integrative structural biology with the combination of the techniques mentioned above. In addition, the Research Fellow will use molecular biology, biophysical and biochemical techniques to characterize biomolecular complexes and their activity in vitro and cellular biology approaches to verify the functional mechanisms in vivo. Role Summary Operate within area of specialism Analyse and interpret research findings and results Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids Contribute to public understanding of the discipline or similar. Main Duties The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below. Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, in the area of interest of the hosting laboratory (Prof T Carlomagno) Acquire, analyse and interpret data - structural biology, biochemical and biophysical data Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline Contribute to writing bids for research funding Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods Undertake management/administration arising from research Contribute to Departmental/Institute research-related activities and research-related administration Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation and literature reviews Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. Person Specification PhD (or near to completion) in Biophysics/ Biochemistry/ Chemical Biology/ Structural Biology or related areas or equivalent qualifications Proficiency in either biomolecular NMR spectroscopy or single-particle electron microscopy, both in data acquisition and analysis Practical experience in a biochemical laboratory and/or handling nucleic acids High level analytical capability Ability to communicate complex information clearly Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly Willingness to work in a competitive, international environment Informal enquiries to Teresa Carlomagno, email: Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview. We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Applications are welcomed from candidates in Europe and other overseas countries. Financial support for visa application fees is available, subject to eligibility and organisational policy. There are Post-doc (Research Fellow) positions available in the field of integrative structural biology, based in the group of Prof. Teresa Carlomagno at the University of Birmingham. The research group studies the functional mechanisms of proteins, including intrinsically disordered proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes by integrative structural biology. The laboratory uses and develops high-field NMR spectroscopy methods as major structural biology tool, in combination with several other techniques. The Research Fellow will work in one of the following fields: RNA metabolism, regulation of gene expression, DNA repair, signalling. The post holder will use NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography and/or Electron Microscopy, as well as Mass Spectrometry and Small Angle Scattering, to study the structure of protein-protein or protein-nucleic acids complexes and discover the mechanisms of their function and regulation. There are opportunities to develop new approaches to integrative structural biology with the combination of the techniques mentioned above. In addition, the Research Fellow will use molecular biology, biophysical and biochemical techniques to characterize biomolecular complexes and their activity in vitro and cellular biology approaches to verify the functional mechanisms in vivo. Role Summary Operate within area of specialism Analyse and interpret research findings and results Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids Contribute to public understanding of the discipline or similar. Main Duties The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below. Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, in the area of interest of the hosting laboratory (Prof T Carlomagno) Acquire, analyse and interpret data - structural biology, biochemical and biophysical data Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline Contribute to writing bids for research funding Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods Undertake management/administration arising from research Contribute to Departmental/Institute research-related activities and research-related administration Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation and literature reviews Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. Person Specification PhD (or near to completion) in Biophysics/ Biochemistry/ Chemical Biology/ Structural Biology or related areas or equivalent qualifications Proficiency in either biomolecular NMR spectroscopy or single-particle electron microscopy, both in data acquisition and analysis Practical experience in a biochemical laboratory and/or handling nucleic acids High level analytical capability Ability to communicate complex information clearly Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly Willingness to work in a competitive, international environment Informal enquiries to Teresa Carlomagno, email: Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview. We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
