Director of Data Services

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
Full Time
Experienced
About EIT:
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 Pathogen Mission highlights EIT’s transformative approach, using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Oracle’s cloud technology to create a global pathogen metagenomics system. This initiative aims to improve diagnostics, provide early epidemic warnings, and guide treatments by profiling antimicrobial resistance. The goal is to deliver certified diagnostic tools for widespread use in labs, hospitals, and public health.
EIT Oxford fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, valuing diverse expertise to drive sustainable solutions to humanity’s enduring challenges.

EIT is looking to recruit a Director of Data Services to lead the development and management of the Pathogen Mission’s core data resources. This pivotal role will drive the creation of innovative data solutions and ensure the seamless integration of high-quality genomic and clinical data for research and development. Reporting to Principal Scientist, the Director will collaborate across internal teams and external partners to advance the mission's objectives.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and manage the core data resources for the Pathogen Mission, enabling cutting-edge product development, benchmarking, and validation.
  • Define data types, requirements, and standards, aligning with national and international frameworks.
  • Identify and secure access to valuable new data sources, working with Business Partnerships, Legal, and Information Security teams.
  • Oversee the processing, quality control, and dissemination of data, ensuring governance and accessibility for EIT researchers.
  • Manage the governance and operations of the Data Research Platform, including its Trusted Researcher Environment.
  • Collaborate with Science and Technology teams to prioritize and implement platform enhancements.
  • Recruit and lead a team of data scientists and engineers to deliver the Pathogen Mission’s objectives.
  • Shape and align data strategies with the broader goals of the Pathogen Mission in collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team.
Qualifications & Experience:
  • Proven experience in building and managing large-scale data systems supporting research and development.
  • Expertise in data standards, quality control, and metadata management for genomic and clinical data.
  • Strong background in accessing and managing large-scale datasets, ensuring compliance with governance standards.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex projects within time and budget constraints.
  • Effective collaboration with scientific, technical, legal, and external stakeholders to achieve shared objectives.
  • Strong project management skills with a delivery-focused mindset.
Desirable Skills:
  • Experience with whole-genome sequencing data in microbiology applications.
  • Familiarity with biobank data (e.g., UK Biobank, Our Future Health).

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

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!

We offer the following salary and benefits:
  • Salary:  £110-£150k (depending on experience) + bonus + travel allowance
  • Enhanced holiday pay
  • Pension
  • Life Assurance
  • Income Protection
  • Private Medical Insurance
  • Hospital Cash Plan
  • Therapy Services
  • Perk Box
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