Head of Bioinformatics - Generative Biology Institute

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford tackles humanity’s greatest challenges by turning science and technology into impactful global solutions. Focused on areas like health, food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, clean energy, and AI-driven government innovation, EIT Oxford blends groundbreaking research with practical applications to deliver lasting results.

A cornerstone of EIT Oxford’s mission is its upcoming 300,000-square-foot research facility at the Oxford Science Park, set to open in 2027. This cutting-edge campus will feature advanced labs, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and collaborative spaces to strengthen its partnership with the University of Oxford. It will also host the Ellison Scholars, driving innovation for societal benefit.

The Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford aims to overcome two major challenges in making biology engineerable: 1) the ability to precisely synthesize entire genomes, and 2) understanding which DNA sequences will create biological systems that perform desired functions. Solving these challenges will unlock the potential of biology for transformative solutions in health, sustainability, agriculture, and more. GBI will house 30 groups and over 300 researchers, supported by cutting-edge facilities and sustained funding to address global challenges and advance biology engineering.

EIT Oxford fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, valuing diverse expertise to drive sustainable solutions to humanity’s enduring challenges.

GBI is looking for a Head of Bioinformatics to lead a dynamic team at the forefront of biological data science. In this pivotal role, you will drive the development and implementation of cutting-edge computational strategies to support groundbreaking research in genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and synthetic biology. Collaborating closely with scientists and technology platform leads, you’ll design robust analytical workflows, manage high-throughput data pipelines, and ensure scientific reproducibility. If you're passionate about advancing discovery through bioinformatics innovation, leadership, and collaboration, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

• To lead and manage the informatics and bioinformatics function, delivering robust analytical capabilities to support the interpretation of genomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and other biological datasets produced by GBI researchers.
• To develop and implement bioinformatics strategies and workflows that support the experimental programmes of GBI, including synthetic biology, genome design, and molecular evolution.
• To work closely with researchers and platform leads (e.g. sequencing, mass spectrometry, flow cytometry) to develop and refine computational pipelines for analysing biological data.
• To recruit, lead, and mentor a team of bioinformaticians and computational biologists, building capacity in biological data analysis and interpretation.
• To develop and maintain pipelines for processing high-throughput datasets.
• To ensure reproducibility, version control, and documentation for all analyses and pipelines, contributing to open science and collaborative research.
• To ensure compliance with best practices in biological data handling.
• To support the integration of biological data with laboratory and experimental metadata, working with data engineers and software developers where needed.
• To advise scientific leadership on emerging bioinformatics methods and tools that can be applied to accelerate discovery.

Qualifications & Experience:

• An advanced degree in informatics, computer science, data science, bioinformatics, or a related field, with strong experience working in a research or scientific environment.
• Extensive experience in building and leading informatics functions, including managing teams, developing data infrastructure, and delivering end-to-end informatics solutions.
• Proven track record of designing and implementing data systems that support large-scale scientific data capture, analysis, and integration.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, software engineers, and operational stakeholders, to deliver fit-for-purpose data tools.
• Strong technical expertise in:
• Data architecture and engineering (e.g. SQL, NoSQL, ETL pipelines).
• Programming languages such as Python, Linux
• Deployment and integration of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and electronic lab notebooks (ELNs).
• API development and system interoperability.
• Data governance and compliance (e.g. GDPR, security standards).
• Experience working within a laboratory or scientific research setting, with a strong understanding of the data needs and challenges across experimental workflows.
• Track record of effectively leading and developing people and teams, with a commitment to innovation, scalability, and reliability.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate technical solutions into strategic value for the organisation.

Benefits

We offer the following salary and benefits:

• Salary: Competitive salary on offer
• Enhanced holiday pay
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Private Medical Insurance
• Hospital Cash Plan
• Therapy Services
• Perk Box
• Electrical Car Scheme

Why work for EIT:

At the Ellison Institute, we believe a collaborative, inclusive team is key to our success. We are building a supportive environment where creative risks are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. Valuing emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience, we encourage people to be curious and to have a shared commitment to excellence. Join us and make an impact!

Terms of Appointment:

You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary.

You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford.

Flexibility to be discussed.

During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.