IOI Research Programme Manager for Antimicrobial Drug Discovery and Development

Life and Mind Building, South Parks Road, OX1 3EL and Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA

The Ineos Oxford Institute for Antimicrobial Research (IOI) is seeking to appoint a Research Programme Manager to oversee and coordinate the research and innovation activities of the Antibiotic Discovery and Development Programme, directed by Professor Chris Schofield and Dr Alistair Farley. This is a two-year fixed term position in the first instance.

The IOI was established to address one of the most pressing challenges in global health: antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Our research spans chemistry, microbiology and global health, with a focus on the design and development of new classes of antibiotics and combination therapies to combat drug-resistant bacterial and mycobacterial infections.

As Research Programme Manager, you will play a pivotal role, by sitting at the heart of the programme, coordinating the research and innovation pipeline, from early proof-of-concept studies through to pre-clinical development. Working closely with the Programme Scientific Lead, IOI Director, and operational colleagues, you will manage the pipeline of research projects, ensuring delivery against milestones and optimising collaboration across disciplines and partner institutions. You’ll help shape research strategy and manage complex multi-partner projects.

You will manage the IOI TB Grand Challenge grant (£5M), oversee translational project budgets and resources, and ensure effective reporting against key performance indicators. You will also contribute to the development of research strategy, assist in the preparation of patents, publications, funding proposals and ethics submissions, and coordinate collaborative activities with national and international partners.

We are seeking an ambitious scientist with excellent organisational and management skills, motivated by research and innovation in the antimicrobial space. You should hold a PhD in Chemistry, Microbiology, Biophysics, or another relevant discipline, and have significant experience in research coordination and project management within complex scientific environments. A solid understanding of translational research processes and excellent communication skills are essential. Experience in medicinal chemistry, drug discovery, or multi-disciplinary research management will be an advantage, as will experience in budget management, procurement, or the use of project management methodologies.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, internationally recognised institute at the forefront of antibiotic discovery and global health innovation.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. Certificates, references and research papers should not be provided at this stage.

To apply for this role and for further details, including a job description and selection criteria, please click the above 'Apply' button.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday, Monday 5th January 2026. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.

The University of Oxford is a Bronze Athena SWAN holder and the Department of Chemistry is a Silver award holder. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and ethnic minority candidates, who are under-represented in Chemistry research posts in Oxford.

Contact Person: Recruitment Team

Closing Date & Time: 05-Jan-2026 12:00

Pay Scale: STANDARD GRADE 7

Contact Email: recruitment@chem.ox.ac.uk

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