Biotechnology Jobs in Oxford

A hub for biotech innovation, with a strong academic and industry presence. Home to world-class research institutions and a thriving ecosystem of startups and scaleups.

Open roles
74
Hiring companies
5

Oxford is a leading centre for biotechnology in the UK, renowned for its cutting-edge research and development. The city is home to the University of Oxford, which has a long history of groundbreaking work in genomics, bioinformatics, and pharmaceutical R&D. This academic excellence is complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of biotech startups and scaleups, many of which have spun out from the university. The local biotech scene is characterised by a strong focus on innovation, with a particular emphasis on areas such as gene therapy, protein engineering, and bioprocessing. Companies in Oxford often offer a mix of on-site and hybrid working arrangements, making it an attractive location for biotech professionals.

Live jobs

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Scientist, Plant Biology and Functional Genomics - Plant Biology Institute

This role involves conducting high-impact research in plant biology and functional genomics, focusing on genetic targets and engineering strategies to modify plant cell growth, division, and morphology. The scientist will work closely with AI, molecular engineering, and plant transformation teams to translate biological hypotheses into testable genetic perturbations and guide the interpretation of resulting phenotypes.

Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Scientist, Small Molecular Chemist - Plant Biology Institute

This role involves conducting high-impact research in plant specialised metabolism engineering, focusing on the development of novel decarbonised plant-based production of food and medicines. The scientist will work in a collaborative environment, designing and conducting experiments, developing customized libraries, and driving the translation of research into real-world solutions.

Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Analyst, Quality Control, Microbiology

This role involves performing routine environmental monitoring, water sampling, and microbiological testing (including sterility, bioburden, and endotoxin) for mRNA products in a GMP-regulated manufacturing environment. The analyst will support method transfers, data review, investigations, and compliance activities while working closely with internal teams and contract laboratories. Emphasis is placed on digital workflows, data integrity, and adherence to cGMP standards.

Moderna Oxford, United Kingdom

(Fixed-Term) Manufacturing Associate I

Operate and maintain equipment in a cGMP-compliant, highly automated mRNA vaccine production environment at Moderna's Oxford facility. Perform production operations, support quality assurance, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives using digital systems and advanced manufacturing technologies. Work within a 2-2-3 rotating shift pattern to ensure reliable, safe, and compliant vaccine manufacturing.

Moderna Oxford, United Kingdom

Scientist, Molecular Biology - Plant Biology Institute

This role involves designing and conducting molecular biology experiments within a plant science research programme focused on improving global food production and sustainability. The scientist will work on stage-gated research milestones, contribute to intellectual property and publications, and collaborate with cross-functional teams including AI, automation, and generative biology experts. Emphasis is placed on translating scientific discoveries into scalable, real-world commercial solutions with ethical and environmental considerations.

Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Genotyping and Event Delivery Manager - Plant Biology Institute

This role leads the molecular confirmation and genotyping of gene-edited and transgenic crop events, ensuring high-quality, data-rich handover to downstream teams. The candidate will establish stage-gate criteria, manage genotyping workflows across multiple technologies, and integrate with transformation, bioinformatics, and trait discovery teams. The position is central to building a scalable, industrial-grade pipeline for crop development in species such as corn and wheat.

Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Scientist, Enzymology - Plant Biology Institute

This role involves developing and optimising high-throughput enzyme assays to characterise plant protein variants for improved crop yield and climate resilience. The scientist will work at the intersection of enzymology, protein engineering, and automation, collaborating with AI and robotics teams to build scalable biochemical workflows. The position focuses on translating computational protein designs into experimentally validated candidates for agricultural innovation.

Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Vector Design Lead - Plant Biology Institute

This role leads the design and delivery of transformation-ready vectors and genome editing reagents for crop improvement programs, focusing on molecular construct development for gene editing and transgenic approaches in species like corn and wheat. The position establishes industrial-grade design standards, ensures technical robustness and regulatory alignment, and integrates with high-throughput transformation pipelines. It involves close collaboration with genotyping, automation, and commercial teams to enable scalable, traceable, and auditable vector development from concept to release.

Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
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Roles hiring in Oxford

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The scene

Hiring in Oxford

Oxford's biotech sector is highly competitive, with a strong demand for skilled professionals. Companies often look for candidates with a strong academic background and practical experience in areas such as genomics and bioinformatics.

The city's academic institutions, particularly the University of Oxford, play a crucial role in nurturing talent and driving innovation. Many biotech companies in Oxford have close ties with these institutions, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits both researchers and industry professionals.

The local ecosystem also supports career development through various training programmes and networking events. This makes Oxford an ideal location for those looking to advance their careers in the biotech industry.

FAQs

Common questions

  • Common roles include research scientists, bioinformaticians, clinical researchers, and bioprocess engineers. Many positions focus on cutting-edge areas like gene therapy and protein engineering.

  • While many roles require on-site presence for lab work, there are opportunities for hybrid working arrangements, especially for roles involving data analysis and project management.

  • Key industries include pharmaceutical R&D, genomics, bioinformatics, and bioprocessing. Many companies are involved in developing new therapies and technologies.

  • Salaries in Oxford's biotech sector are competitive and reflect the high level of expertise and innovation. For specific salary ranges, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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