Senior Scientist, Chip Development
Likely
Sponsorship likelihood
This employer has issued visas recently
Not disclosed
Salary
Not disclosed by employer
£39,900
Going rate
Skilled Worker going rate
This role likely qualifies for a Skilled Worker visa
SOC 2111 (62% match) is an eligible occupation, with a going rate of £39,900, and OXFORD NANOPORE TECHNOLOGIES PLC is a licensed sponsor. That is our reading of the rules. Whether they issue a Certificate of Sponsorship is still their call.
This could also be SOC 2114 (Physical scientists) or SOC 2113 (Biochemists and biomedical scientists). We read the code off the advert, so it is our best guess, not the employer's.
New graduate or PhD holder? Pick one of the lower rates.
What each route needs for this job
| Occupation code | New entrant 70% of going rate | STEM PhD 80% of going rate | Relevant PhD 90% of going rate | Standard rate 100% of going rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2111 Chemical scientists Most likely code | £33,400 | £33,400 | £37,500 | £39,900 |
We use the lowest threshold across the plausible codes. Likelihood is Possible at most when the pay clears only a lower rate, or only under a less likely code. How the Home Office picks the code
About the role
Senior Scientist, Chip Development (12-Month Maternity Cover) | Oxford Nanopore Technologies
This is a 12-month maternity cover opportunity within our Chip Development team, offering the chance to work on cutting-edge science and contribute directly to the advancement of Oxford Nanopore's sequencing platforms.
We are seeking a Senior Scientist with expertise in surface science, biophysics, materials chemistry, or physical chemistry of interfaces to support the continuous innovation of the membrane and sensor chip chemistry that sits at the core of our technology.
This is a highly collaborative, laboratory-based role where you will work alongside multidisciplinary teams to solve complex scientific challenges, develop novel approaches, and contribute to technologies that are transforming genomics and molecular sensing.
Please note: this is a full time on site role based at the Oxford Science Park.
The Role
Key responsibilities include:
- Characterising and modifying surfaces and interfaces to drive improvements and innovation of our proprietary sensor chip technology
- Researching and developing novel membrane formulations
- Supporting electrophysiology-based experiments
- Designing experiments, analysing data, and communicating findings to a variety of stakeholders
- Collaborating across R&D teams to advance platform chemistry and support intellectual property generation
- Transferring processes and documentation to wider teams across the business
- Contributing to multiple projects while maintaining high scientific and laboratory safety standards
What We're Looking For
- PhD in Surface Science, Biophysics, Materials Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline
Desirable Experience
- Experience working with biological molecules such as DNA or proteins
- Previous project management experience
- Experience balancing multiple scientific projects simultaneously
About You
You are a curious and motivated scientist who enjoys solving challenging problems and translating scientific ideas into practical solutions. You thrive in fast-paced environments, are highly organised, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple priorities. You enjoy collaborating with others, communicating scientific findings clearly, and contributing to innovative research that delivers real-world impact.
This role would suit someone who is passionate about science, excited by interdisciplinary research, and eager to contribute to technology that is redefining what is possible in genomics.
Interested in learning more? We'd love to hear from you.
Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person's gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job.
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This description is the source posting as it read when we added it. We are not affiliated with OXFORD NANOPORE TECHNOLOGIES PLC, so check their own site for the current details.
Where this offer sits in the market
Chemical scientists (SOC 2111) · UK · ONS ASHE 2025 · basic pay · ~19k in sample- Middle half £32,084–~45,604
- Median £38,844
- Minimum £41,700
- Going rate £39,900
- New entrant £33,400–35,900
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About sponsorship for this role
Does this job guarantee visa sponsorship?
Not necessarily. OXFORD NANOPORE TECHNOLOGIES PLC holds a sponsor licence, but sponsorship for a specific hire is always the employer's decision. Be upfront in your application that you'll require it.
What salary is needed for this role to be eligible?
The offer must clear both the general threshold and the SOC 2111 going rate of £39,900. New-entrant and shortage discounts can lower it.