Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Epitranscriptomics

Economics Network; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Economics Network is seeking two Postdoctoral Research Scientists in Epitranscriptomics to join Dr Chunxiao Song’s team at the Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine in Oxford. You will lead projects on pseudouridine biology and its clinical applications in cancer diagnostics using RNA sequencing.

The role requires a PhD in a related field, strong molecular biology skills, and a track record of scientific publications.

Qualifications

• Essential PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Chemistry or related field.
• Strong practical skills in molecular biology, biochemistry or cell biology.
• Experience with scientific publications and presenting data.
• Ability to independently manage and lead research projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects in epitranscriptomics.
• Develop and adapt experimental techniques; test hypotheses.
• Prepare scientific reports and journal articles; present findings.
• Collaborate with researchers and partner institutions.

Skills

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Cell biology

RNA biology

Epitranscriptomics

Project leadership

Scientific publications

Communication skills

Bioinformatics

Next-generation sequencing

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

Next-generation sequencing

Bioinformatics data analysis

Job description

Location: Target Discovery Institute, NDM Research Building, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FZ

Salary: Research Grade 7: Salary in range £39,424 - £47,779 per annum (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).

Advert text:

We are seeking to appoint two Postdoctoral Research Scientists in Epitranscriptomics to join Dr Chunxiao Song’s research group at the Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine. You will contribute to research investigating the role of pseudouridine and pseudouridine synthases (PUS) in cancer, alongside exploring the clinical applications of pseudouridine in circulating cell-free RNA for cancer diagnostics. The group develops cutting-edge technologies for high-resolution mapping of DNA and RNA modifications, translating discoveries in epigenetics and epitranscriptomics into diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities.

You will be responsible for managing and leading research projects, developing and adapting experimental techniques, testing hypotheses and analysing scientific data. The role includes contributing to research development and funding proposals, preparing scientific reports and journal articles, presenting research findings and providing specialist advice on experimental protocols and techniques. You will also collaborate with researchers and partner institutions, contributing to the development of innovative approaches in RNA biology and epitranscriptomics.

It is essential that you hold, or are close to completing, a relevant PhD/DPhil in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, together with relevant research experience. You should have strong practical skills in molecular biology, biochemistry or cell biology, specialist knowledge of RNA biology or epitranscriptomics, and the ability to independently manage and lead research projects. Excellent communication skills and experience contributing to scientific publications are also required. Experience with next-generation sequencing, bioinformatic data analysis, liquid biopsy or cell-free RNA sequencing, supervising researchers or students, and first-author publications in a relevant field would be advantageous.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract for 24 months and is funded by Cancer Research UK

£39,424 to £47,779 per annum (pro rata) Grade 7