Job Description

Software Automation Engineer
Do you want to help build the next generation of autonomous lab platforms?
This role focuses on creating the automation backbone behind next-generation lab and robotics platforms. You'll work at the intersection of instruments, robots, firmware, and software - building the integrations and workflows that enable true autonomous experimentation. Expect a mix of device-level engineering, system-wide architecture, and hands-on problem solving.
If you enjoy connecting hardware, software, and clever engineering to build systems that run themselves, you'll fit right in.
What You'll Be Doing:

• Developing automated workflows that turn complex experimental steps into structured, repeatable software protocols using robotics
• Integrate lab hardware and software, exposing firmware capabilities through clean, standard interfaces.
• Contribute to system architecture design to ensure high reliability, monitoring, and performance across all automation platforms.
• Break systems down, understand them deeply, and reimagine how they can be used to create innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with scientific, technical, and operational colleagues to ensure automation meets real-world needs.
• Evaluate new tools and technologies with external vendors and integrate them into existing workflows.

What We're Looking For:

• Experience in automation engineering, robotics, biotech, or industrial systems integration.
• Proven track record of designing and deploying robust automation systems, including multi-device orchestration.
• Skilled in firmware-level control, driver development, and exposing device capabilities through APIs.
• Strong programming skills in Python and C/C++.
• Experienced in software best practices: version control, PR reviews, documentation, and efficient workflows.
• A creative thinker - able to design automation that goes beyond simply replicating human tasks.

Nice to Have:

• Relevant degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or similar.
• Familiarity with open-source automation libraries, such as PyLabRobot.
• Experience creating digital twins or virtual representations of lab devices.
• Background in biotech, pharma, materials science, or other R&D areas that rely heavily on automation.

Offices and Lab located in Oxford.
Hybrid working c.3 days in office
Competitive salary + benefits dependent on experience.
Ready to help build the next generation of intelligent robots? Apply now and join a fast-moving team shaping the future of applied robotics and AI.

Skills Required