Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Bioconjugation Chemistry

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Oxford is seeking a talented Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join a leading laboratory focusing on bioconjugation chemistry and developing protein labeling techniques. The role requires a PhD in a related field and expertise in organic synthesis and protein chemistry. Responsibilities include method design, reagent synthesis, and active participation in a multidisciplinary team. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including pension schemes and generous leave policies.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

38 days annual leave

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 techniques including organic synthesis and peptide/protein chemistry.
• Proven track record of first author publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement new ligation methods for protein labeling applications.
• Carry out reagent synthesis for designed approaches.
• Manage own research activities, including administrative tasks.
• Participate in the multidisciplinary environment of the Stevens Group.

Skills

Bioconjugation chemist expertise

Organic synthesis

Protein chemistry

Publication experience

Education

PhD/DPhil in chemical biology or related field

Job description

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join Professor Dame Molly Stevens's laboratory at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford. The Stevens Group is based within the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics and is also affiliated with the Institute of Biomedical Engineering. We are looking for a talented bioconjugation chemist with broad expertise in the design and application of biomolecule ligation strategies for sensing and therapeutic applications. This post is available from February 2026 for a fixed-term of 18 months, with the possibility of part-time appointments being considered.

• Design and implement new ligation methods for protein labeling applications, including sensing and therapeutics.
• Carry out reagent synthesis for designed approaches.
• Perform bioconjugation reactions and subsequent characterisation and analysis with biomolecules (e.g., proteins and peptides).
• Establish cross-disciplinary protocols to incorporate the bioconjugation strategies into next-generation sensing and therapeutic applications 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.

  Hold, or be near to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in chemical biology, chemistry, or related field.

• Experience in techniques including organic synthesis and peptide/protein chemistry.
• Experience in performing bioconjugation reactions and characterising bioconjugates.
• Previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations, with a proven track record of first author publications in peer reviewed journals.

  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.

  Your wellbeing at work matters, 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 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