Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Combinatorial Chemist in Polymer Nanoparticles

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Oxford is looking for a motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist to design and synthesize materials for nanoparticle formulations in drug delivery. The ideal candidate will have expertise in organic and polymer chemistry and a PhD in a relevant field. Responsibilities include developing nanoparticles, managing research activities, and collaborating across disciplines. This role provides a supportive and inclusive research environment along with benefits like a contributory pension scheme and extensive annual leave.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

38 days annual leave

Comprehensive childcare services

Family leave schemes

Cycle and electric car loan schemes

Employee Assistance Programme

Membership to social and sports clubs

Discounted bus travel

Qualifications

• Experience in multi-step organic synthesis and chemical characterization techniques.
• Experience in synthesizing polymer/lipid nanoparticles for therapeutic delivery.
• Proven ability to manage research activities and collaborate in a team.

Responsibilities

• Develop a library of nanoparticles for drug delivery.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques in nanomaterials.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams.

Skills

Organic chemistry expertise

Polymer synthesis

Nanoparticle characterization

Excellent communication skills

Education

PhD/DPhil in chemistry, materials science, or nanotechnology

Tools

NMR

LC-MS

Job description

In this role, you will be responsible for the design and synthesis of materials of a library of lipid-like polymers (lipidoids) to be used in nanoparticle formulations for nucleic acid delivery. This post is available immediately for a fixed-term until 31st July 2027, with the possibility of part-time appointments being considered.

Responsibilities

• Develop a library of hybrid polymer- and lipid nanoparticles and design functionalisation strategies for targeted drug delivery.
• Use state-of-the-art nanomaterial characterisation techniques including cryo-TEM, DLS, SANS/SAXS and the in-house developed single particle Raman spectroscopy technique SPARTA.
• Establish cross-disciplinary protocols to incorporate the materials into biomedical applications in collaboration with other members of the research team.
• Manage your own research activities, including administrative tasks associated with the project.
• Actively participate in the multidisciplinary environment of the Stevens Group and collaborate with external research groups.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join Prof Molly Stevens's lab at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with strong expertise in organic/polymer chemistry who is also a confident self-starter, a collaborative team player, and demonstrate a proven track record of first‑author publications in peer‑reviewed journals. Hold, or be near to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology, or related field.

Qualifications

• Experience in multi‑step organic synthesis, purification and standard chemical characterisation techniques (e.g. NMR, LC‑MS).
• Experience in the synthesis of polymer/lipid nanoparticles for applications in therapeutic delivery.
• Experience in nanoparticle characterisation techniques.
• Proven track record of first‑author publications in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Ability to work independently and manage your own research and administrative tasks.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU.

At the Department of Physiology Anatomy & Genetics (DPAG) we undertake discovery science where we reassemble physiological processes at the molecular, cellular, tissue and systems level of organisation. In so doing we provide a bridge to translational medicine, and interface between physical and life sciences. We are committed not only to innovative research and the highest standard of teaching, but also to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment.

Benefits

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