Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Oxford; Reading; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in the UK seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to investigate RNA binding proteins' roles in the developing brain. The successful candidate will conduct genomic analyses and work within a multidisciplinary team to tackle neurodevelopmental issues. The role offers significant professional development, competitive leave policies, and a commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environment with substantial community engagement.

Benefits

38 days of annual leave

Generous family leave schemes

Hybrid and flexible working

Excellent pension scheme

Affordable commuting options

Access to social and sports clubs

Qualifications

• Strong experience with genomic data analysis.
• Proficient in programming languages such as Python or R.
• Experience working with RNA-protein interactions is highly beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the function of RNA binding proteins in the developing human brain.
• Use genomic techniques to model RNA-protein interactions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to research publications.

Skills

Genomic data analysis

Programming in Python

Programming in R

Collaborative research

Problem-solving skills

Education

PhD/DPhil in genetics or related field

Tools

RNA-seq

CLIP-seq

ChIP-seq

Job description

Role Overview

Join the University of Oxford as part of the influential Sanders and Rinaldi Groups‑leaders in genomic research and therapeutic innovation. This role sits within the MRC Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE) in Therapeutics Genomics, a flagship national programme accelerating the development of genome-targeted therapies. As Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will investigate the function of RNA binding proteins (RBPs) in the developing human brain and their contribution to neurodevelopmental and neurological disorders. You will use a broad range of genomic techniques, including RNA‑seq, ATAC‑seq, ChIP‑seq, CLIP‑seq, and whole genome sequencing, to model RNA‑protein interactions and uncover fundamental biological mechanisms with translational potential. Working across a multidisciplinary environment, you will collaborate with computational scientists, laboratory researchers, clinicians, and external partners. You will develop advanced analytical approaches, contribute to publications and grant proposals, mentor junior colleagues, and help shape strategic directions within the research programme.

Qualifications

You will hold (or be near completion of) a PhD/DPhil in genetics, computational biology, biostatistics, or a related field, and bring strong experience with genomic data analysis. You will be proficient in programming languages such as Python or R and demonstrate experience working with one or more genomic modalities relevant to RNA‑protein interactions (e.G., RNA‑seq, CLIP‑seq, ChIP‑seq). You will be an analytical, collaborative researcher with excellent communication and problem‑solving skills. Experience in modelling RNA‑protein interactions, regulatory genomics, or neurodevelopmental disorders will be highly beneficial. You will be motivated by impactful work that bridges fundamental biology and future therapeutic development.

Research Context

The Department of Paediatrics at the University of Oxford is a vibrant and inclusive community at the forefront of child health research and clinical care. Our academics and clinicians work side by side to translate world‑leading scientific discoveries into real benefits for children and families locally, nationally, and globally. We hold the Athena Swan Gold Award, recognising our commitment to equality, inclusivity, and staff development. Alongside a welcoming culture rooted in wellbeing, we offer opportunities for personal growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact. As part of the Medical Sciences Division, you will join one of the world’s leading environments for biomedical and clinical research, with state‑of‑the‑art facilities and a strong culture of innovation and excellence.

Benefits

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full‑pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full‑pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.