Staff Scientist - Animal Biobank, Cell Culture and Cryopreservation

About the role

Oikos Genomics is looking for a Staff Scientist to run the daily operations of its animal cell culture laboratory and biobank, supporting the long-term genetic conservation of threatened species. The role is based in Abu Dhabi and Sweihan and combines routine biobanking services with developing cell culture and cryopreservation methods for non-model species, while supporting ongoing iPSC and primordial germ cell (PGC) projects. The scientist works under the supervision of the Head of Genomics and the Head of Research, alongside students, project scientists and external partners.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate daily laboratory activities, including equipment maintenance, consumables, quality control and biosafety practices.
• Receive, register and process biological samples, ensuring accurate identification and traceability.
• Isolate, culture and expand primary animal cells and prepare samples for cryopreservation.
• Maintain biobank inventories and databases, keeping storage records and sample tracking accurate.
• Maintain, expand and assess the quality of iPSC and PGC lines used in research.
• Develop and optimise cell culture and cryopreservation methods to extend biobanking capacity to more species.
• Prepare and update standard operating procedures for consistent, reproducible practice.
• Train and supervise students, interns and temporary laboratory staff.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners on method development and research, and contribute to data analysis, technical reports and publications.

Required profile

• PhD in Cell Biology, Reproductive Biotechnology, Animal Science or a related field, or a Master's degree with substantial relevant laboratory experience.
• Solid hands-on experience in animal cell culture and cryopreservation.
• Experience in laboratory operations, quality control and accurate record-keeping.
• Fluent written and spoken English.

Required skills

• Animal cell culture and cryopreservation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word, for data management and reporting.
• Preferred: experience with iPSC and PGC lines, avian or other non-model organisms, biobank management software and international biobanking standards, and molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qPCR and transfection.