Staff Scientist – Animal Biobank, Cell Culture & Cryopreservation

About the role

Oikos Genomics is looking for a Staff Scientist to manage daily operations of its animal cell culture laboratory and biobank, supporting genetic conservation of threatened species. The role is based in Abu Dhabi and Sweihan and involves both routine biobanking and development of new cell culture and cryopreservation methods.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate daily laboratory activities, equipment maintenance, consumables, quality control and biosafety practices.
• Receive, register and process biological samples, ensuring accurate identification, traceability and biobank inventory management.
• Isolate, culture and expand primary animal cells, prepare samples for cryopreservation and maintain iPSC/PGC lines.
• Develop and optimise cell culture and cryopreservation protocols for non‑model species.
• Prepare and update standard operating procedures, train students and supervise temporary staff.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners, contribute to data analysis, technical reports and scientific publications.

Required profile

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

Required skills

• Animal cell culture
• Cryopreservation techniques
• Biobank inventory and database management
• iPSC and primordial germ cell handling
• Microsoft Excel and Word
• Molecular biology methods (PCR, qPCR, transfection)