Postdoctoral Research Associate in Biochemistry and Structural biology

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Oxford is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to explore molecular mechanisms of chromosome remodelling. You will lead research using cryo-EM and collaborate with a dynamic team. Applicants should hold a relevant PhD/DPhil and possess experience in various advanced biological techniques. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits, with funding for up to 3 years.

Benefits

Excellent contributory pension scheme

38 days annual leave

Comprehensive childcare services

Family leave schemes

Cycle loan scheme

Membership to social and sports clubs

Discounted bus travel

Qualifications

• Hold a PhD/DPhil or be near completion of a PhD/DPhil in a relevant discipline.
• Good communication and teamwork skills required.
• Experience in cryo-EM sample preparation and data analysis is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Investigate molecular mechanisms of SMC complexes using cryo-EM.
• Develop new ideas and approaches in structural biology research.
• Provide guidance to less experienced team members.

Skills

Protein chromatography

Recombinant DNA techniques

Quantitative data analysis

Communication skills

Education

PhD/DPhil in a relevant biological discipline

Tools

Cryo-EM

Job description

About the role

Dr. Frank Bürmann leads a research group investigating the molecular mechanisms of chromosome remodelling. The team employs biochemical reconstitution, electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM), advanced bacterial genetics, and phage biology to explore how cells and viruses control the three-dimensional structure of DNA. We investigate how structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) complexes shape chromosomes by DNA loop extrusion, how they cooperate with DNA topoisomerases, and how bacteriophages and other infectious agents manipulate host chromosomes and defences.

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Research Associate in biochemistry and structural biology to join our expanding team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to pioneering research at the forefront of structural chromosome biology. You will investigate the molecular mechanisms of SMC complexes using cryo-EM, with the aim of directly visualising their activities. You will employ a multi-disciplinary approach, including protein/nucleic acid biochemistry, bacterial genetics, and phage biology to test and generate hypotheses. You will develop new ideas and approaches and provide guidance to less experienced members of the team.

This full-time fixed-term post is funded by the Wellcome Trust for up to 3 years in the first instance and is based at the Department of Biochemistry, South Parks Road, Oxford.

The actual starting salary offered will be based on qualifications and relevant skills acquired and will also be determined by the funding available.

About you

You will hold a PhD/DPhil or be near completion of a PhD/DPhil in a relevant biological discipline. Good communication and documentation skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team are essential. You will be self-motivated, creative, and persistent, with a proven ability to address challenging research questions. You will have experience in protein chromatography, recombinant DNA techniques, and quantitative data analysis. The research involves cryo-EM sample preparation, data acquisition, and analysis, so experience in these areas would be advantageous.

What We Offer

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

The University also runs an enormous amount of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via the 'Apply' button above and Vacancy ID181497. You will be required to upload your curriculum vitae and a supporting statement, setting out how you meet the selection criteria for the post, using examples of your skills and experience. Clickherefor information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement. As part of your application, you will be asked to provide details of two referees and indicate whether we can contact them now.

For further details, please refer to the How to apply section of the job description. Any further enquires may be directed to [e-mail].

The closing date for applications is12.00 noononMonday 15th September 2025. Only applications received before this time can be considered. Interviews for shortlisted candidates to be held on as soon as possible thereafter.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity

£41,997 to £46,913 per annum