Postdoctoral Scientist in Experimental Organoid Biology

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

Job summary

A prestigious university in the UK is seeking a post-doctoral scientist to join its research team focused on colorectal cancer. The role involves generating gene-edited organoid models and conducting functional assays. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD in a relevant field with strong practical expertise in mammalian cell culture and organoid systems. This role provides opportunities for first-author publications and collaboration with clinical teams.

Qualifications

• Holding or near completion of a PhD in a relevant field.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture and organoid systems.
• Strong track record in experimental science.

Responsibilities

• Generate and characterize gene-edited human colon organoid models.
• Develop and maintain organoid biobanks.
• Perform functional assays and contribute to drug sensitivity studies.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Organoid systems expertise

CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing

Advanced microscopy

Education

PhD in cancer biology, stem cell biology, or related field

Job description

We are looking for an enthusiastic post-doctoral scientist to work in our research team. You will be based in the Old Road Campus Research Building in the tumour evolution and cell identity laboratory, as your normal place of work.

You will join the SMOC (Stem cell signatures of Mutational Order in Colorectal Cancer) study, a Cancer Research UK-funded programme led from the University of Oxford. The project aims to uncover how the sequence of genetic mutations in colorectal cancer drives changes in stem cell identity, epigenetics, tumour-microenvironment interactions, and therapy response.

You will focus on generating and characterising gene-edited human colon organoid models for the SMOC (Stem cell signatures of Mutational Order in Colorectal Cancer) study. This includes CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering, sequential editing to model mutational order, and advanced co-culture systems with stromal and immune cells. You will develop and maintain organoid biobanks, perform functional assays, and contribute to drug sensitivity studies in engineered and patient-derived organoids.

The role provides the opportunity to pioneer experimental systems that directly underpin the programme, with scope for first-author publications, close collaboration with computational and clinical teams, and training in emerging technologies such as high-content live-cell imaging (SPOT) and single-cell multiomics.

You will work closely with clinical collaborators and computational partners to generate mechanistic insights, with opportunities to lead first-author publications, develop novel methodologies, and present at international meetings.

You will hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in cancer biology, stem cell biology, or a related field. You will bring strong practical expertise in mammalian cell culture, with a track record in organoid systems, primary culture, or CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Experience in advanced microscopy, phenotypic assays, or tumour-microenvironment modelling would be advantageous.

You will be motivated, methodical, and creative, with excellent organisational skills and the ability to work both independently and in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team. A strong publication and/or presentation record and a clear commitment to high-quality experimental science are essential.

Most importantly, you will be motivated by the opportunity to pursue high-impact, curiosity-driven science that also carries clear potential for translational benefit in colorectal cancer.

This full-time/part-time post is available immediately fixed-term for one year in the first instance.