Postdoctoral Research Associate in Epigenetics and Evolution

We are seeking a post-doctoral researcher to join the Fitz-James lab on a Wellcome-funded project investigating the role and mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance in insects.

The potential for epigenetic information to be inherited across generations is increasingly being recognized in diverse organisms. However, the extent to which epigenetic signals contribute to heritable phenotypes in natural populations is not known. The research will focus on measuring the rate at which new heritable epigenetic changes, or “epimutations”, arise in populations of Drosophila. This will include measuring changes in histone modifications and small RNAs, among others.

You will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary and growing research group conducting exciting epigenetics research on different insect models. You will be responsible for managing and carrying out your own research project within the group, which will be in close collaboration with the lab of Prof. Peter Sarkies at the Department of Biochemistry.

You will be a highly motivated individual, with experience in molecular biology research. You will hold, or be close to completion, of a relevant PhD and have experience working with high-throughput sequencing data. Excellent communication skills and the ability to present your work and contribute to publications is essential. Experience working with Drosophila as a model organism and/or in epigenetics research is also desirable.

The post is advertised for an initial period of 24 months with the possibility of extensions beyond this date.

Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr Fitz-James at maximilian.fitz-james@biology.ox.ac.uk.

Where Covid-19 has resulted in substantial disruption to your work or research outputs, please explain this by providing an additional paragraph in your supporting statement.

The University of Oxford is committed to equality and valuing diversity. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria.

This post is full time and is available from 1 June 2025 (with some flexibility) for 2 years.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Wednesday 5 March 2025, and interviews are likely to be scheduled for early March 2025. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via our e-recruitment system, and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application.

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