Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Bioconjugation Chemistry

University of Oxford; Packmoor; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in the UK seeks a Postdoctoral Research Assistant for a full-time role focused on bioconjugation chemistry. The successful candidate will design ligation methods, synthesize reagents, and manage research activities within a multidisciplinary environment. Candidates should possess a PhD/DPhil in a relevant field and have experience in organic synthesis and bioconjugation techniques. A strong publication record is preferred. The position offers an inclusive and supportive working environment along with generous benefits.

Benefits

Generous pension scheme

38 days annual leave

Childcare services

Flexible working arrangements

Cycle and electric car loan schemes

Qualifications

• Near completion or holding of PhD in relevant field.
• Experience in organic synthesis and bioconjugation reactions.
• Proven track record of first author publications.

Responsibilities

• Design ligation methods for protein labeling applications.
• Carry out reagent synthesis for designed approaches.
• Manage your own research activities, including admin tasks.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Peptide/protein chemistry

Bioconjugation techniques

Research presentation

Education

PhD/DPhil in chemical biology, chemistry, or related field

Job description

Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term for 18 months

About us

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.

Overview of the role

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.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement new ligation methods for protein labelling 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.

Selection criteria

• 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.

Refer to the job description for a full list of responsibilities and selection criteria.

What we offer

• 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

While this is a full‑time role, we welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part‑time working or other flexible working arrangements.

How to apply

Please provide a supporting statement outlining how you meet the selection criteria along with your CV, and the details of two referees as part of your online application. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 19th January 2026. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 2nd February 2026, and will be held on Microsoft Teams.

Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under‑represented in academic posts in Oxford.

Follow us

Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, Bluesky and Instagram to learn more about our work and culture. Informal enquiries about the role may be directed to the DPAG HR Team: [e-mail].

DPAG’s Statement of Inclusion

We, as a Department and Community, will be considerate and welcoming of all people, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and socio‑economic background. We acknowledge societal inequalities and how these impact us, and those around us, personally and professionally. Our policies, practices and Respectful Behaviours Framework underpin this commitment.

DPAG and Sustainability

We have signed up to The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) and Green Impact, actively implementing and encouraging eco‑friendly practices that reduce waste, promote energy efficiency, and promote bio‑diversity. See the job description for more detail.