Ellison Institute of Technology is hiring UX Researcher

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 for a passionate UX Researcher to join the Pathogen Programme to help shape innovative tools for pathogen monitoring, antimicrobial resistance profiling, and epidemic surveillance. Reporting to the Head of Product, you’ll collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of product managers, designers, developers, and external stakeholders to ensure our solutions meet the needs of researchers, clinicians and public health professionals worldwide.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to uncover user needs, behaviors, and pain points across diverse global contexts.
• Design and execute research activities such as user interviews, contextual inquiries, surveys, and usability tests, tailored for an early-stage product environment.
• Analyse and synthesize research findings into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to embed user-centered design principles throughout the product lifecycle.
• Develop user personas, journey maps, and scenarios to guide product development.
• Explore ways to encourage users to engage with and submit data to tools designed for pathogen monitoring and epidemic surveillance.
• Communicate research findings effectively to diverse stakeholders, advocating for user needs and considerations.
• Build and maintain a knowledge repository of user insights for ongoing and future reference.

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Foundational knowledge of UX research methods, including user interviews, usability testing, survey design, and contextual inquiries.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive and adaptable mindset with a commitment to learning and growing.
• A degree in Science, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Sociology, Public Health, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• Domain expertise in infectious diseases or public health, with familiarity in pathogen surveillance or diagnostics.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across disciplines and cultures.

Desirable Qualifications & Experience:

• Interest or experience in SaaS products, life sciences, healthcare, or global health initiatives.
• Experience in early-stage or exploratory research environments.

We offer the following salary and benefits:

• Salary:  circa £50,000 per annum (depending on experience)
• Enhanced holiday pay
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Private Medical Insurance
• Hospital Cash Plan
• Therapy Services
• Perk Box

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