Are you an experienced Automation Scientist looking to take ownership of cutting-edge laboratory automation in a fast-paced and collaborative environment?
We're looking for a hands-on scientist with proven laboratory automation expertise to join our Lab Automation team in Oxford. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in maintaining and developing automated workflows, supporting cell-based assay automation, and ensuring the reliable operation of our Hamilton STAR platform within the automation suite.
About the Role
As an Automation Scientist, you'll be responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance and continuous improvement of our automation suite. You'll apply your practical automation experience to develop, validate, troubleshoot and optimise automated laboratory workflows while supporting cell culture activities and ensuring high standards of laboratory operation.
This role would suit an established automation professional who already has extensive experience working with liquid handling systems and automated laboratory processes and is comfortable taking ownership of workflows from implementation through to routine operation.
What You'll Be Doing
Automation & Workflow Development
Develop, validate, optimise and troubleshoot automated workflows on Hamilton STAR liquid handling platforms
Translate manual laboratory protocols into robust, scalable and reproducible automated methods
Support method implementation, testing and continuous improvement activities
Apply approved workflow updates and method enhancements
Automation Suite Operations
Maintain the automation suite in a clean, organised and operational state
Carry out routine deck strip-downs, cleaning, equipment maintenance and room readiness checks
Provide first-line support to automation users and operators
Calibration & Verification: Perform liquid-class calibration activities and maintain accurate calibration records. Conduct liquid verification assays and support performance assessments of automated methods. Review and interpret calibration and verification data to ensure consistent system performance.
Cell Culture & Laboratory Support: Establish and maintain development cell seed trains for automation development activities. Undertake routine cell culture activities to support workflow validation and development. Apply strong aseptic technique and best laboratory practices.
Stock Management & Compliance: Monitor and manage laboratory consumables and reagent inventory. Maintain accurate, traceable documentation in line with company procedures. Ensure compliance with SOPs, health and safety requirements and data integrity standards.
What We're Looking For
Essential
PhD or equivalent years experience in a relevant scientific discipline, or equivalent laboratory automation experience
Proven experience working as an Automation Scientist or similar laboratory automation role
Hands-on experience operating, maintaining and troubleshooting liquid handling automation platforms, ideally Hamilton STAR
Experience developing and implementing automated laboratory workflows from manual methods
Strong practical laboratory skills, including accurate pipetting and sample handling
Experience with aseptic technique and cell culture or cell handling workflows
Good data handling and record-keeping skills, including Excel proficiency
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and escalate issues appropriately
Experience working to SOPs and maintaining high-quality laboratory documentation
Desirable
Advanced Hamilton STAR programming experience
Experience with liquid-class calibration, assay validation or method verification
Familiarity with LIMS, ELNs or digital laboratory data management systems
Experience supporting operators or collaborating across multidisciplinary teams
Experience working within regulated or quality-focused laboratory environments
What Success Looks Like
In your first six months, you'll become fully embedded within the environment and independently support:
Routine Hamilton STAR operations
Liquid-class calibration and verification activities
Workflow troubleshooting and method implementation
Cell culture activities supporting automation development
Day-to-day ownership of suite readiness and operator support
Longer term, you'll become a key contributor to the reliable operation and continuous improvement of our laboratory automation capabilities.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to take ownership of a highly visible automation platform, work alongside experienced automation specialists, and directly influence the development of robust automated scientific workflows that support cutting-edge research and development.
Ready to apply? We'd love to hear from experienced automation professionals who are passionate about laboratory automation, operational excellence and continuous improvement.
And just to confirm, here at Ivy Farm, we're an employer that believes in creating a workplace where everyone feels included and valued, no matter who they are.
Total Package: (Full-time, on-site role)
At Ivy Farm, we believe that every employee should be compensated fairly. Based on the skill and level of experience required for this role.
You will also be eligible for:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays
Company pension contribution 5%
Private health care from day one
Shares
Company Bonus, eligible from day one
Oodles of amazing fresh ground coffee, tea and snacks
Company events
Fabulous super cool office environment, we’re biased, but let’s face it... it’s cool
(no agencies, thank you)
