We are recruiting for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Laboratory and Molecular Medicine
About the Role
The aim of this role is to manage and carry out the laboratory-based microbiology component for several large-scale projects. Work will include:
1. Managing sample receipt, cataloguing and collection across different projects.
2. Working closely with team members within the group and externally (e.g., clinical trials unit team members, project managers, diagnostic microbiology staff).
3. Evaluating and streamlining sample preparation and laboratory protocols.
4. Preparing samples for submission to external sequencing providers, including undertaking nucleic acid (isolate and metagenomic) extractions, and performing relevant extraction and sequencing workflows in-house, including Illumina and nanopore sequencing.
There is no teaching commitment associated with the post (although this could be potentially arranged if wished); however, the post-holder will be expected to provide expert advice to other group members from different disciplines and visiting students/researchers, and will receive advice from other disciplines in return.
About You
You will be educated to PhD level in a relevant discipline, however individuals with an MSc/BSc level education but with considerable relevant experience will be considered at a grade 6. To succeed in this post, the post-holder will have strong microbiology laboratory skills (molecular, culture-based), together with an enquiring and flexible attitude, a keen interest in working collaboratively with researchers from different disciplines and drive to achieve project objectives. Our studies are large-scale and need an organised, enthusiastic and highly motivated person who is capable of managing their area of work and troubleshooting issues, and confident in summarising their experimental findings for discussion with the project leads, for participating in research dissemination activities, and for write-up for publication. Given good progress on the project deliverables and relevant funding, there may be opportunity for the successful candidate to develop and lead a specific area of their own research interest within the ongoing research activities of the group.
About the Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine
The Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine (NDM) is one of the largest departments of the University of Oxford and is part of the Medical Sciences Division, with responsibility for a significant part of the teaching of clinical students within the Medical School.
What We Offer
As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ well-being and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
• Flexible working
• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays)
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
The University also runs a large number of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.
Application Process
The post is full time and fixed term for 24 months.
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application.
Only applications received before 12.00 midday on Wednesday 8th January 2025 will be considered. However , the job advert may close earlier if we find a suitable candidate.