Postdoctoral Research Associate in Insect Biology

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Department of Biology on a collaborative project between the Fitz-James and McLean labs investigating the molecular mechanisms of insect polyphenism.

Polyphenism is an extreme case of plasticity in which individuals can adopt highly distinct phenotypic identities depending on environmental conditions. One such case occurs in the pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum, in which females can develop into winged or non-winged morphs, triggered by crowding. Aphid females reproduce parthenogenetically, highlighting the fact that these phenotypic differences are due to epigenetic factors and representing a useful system to study these differences in the absence of genetic variation. This project will investigate the epigenetic signals that underpin aphid wing polyphenism at the molecular level, using techniques such as ATAC-seq and Cut&Run, coupled with gene expression analysis by RNA-seq.

You will be a highly motivated individual, with experience in molecular biology research in aphids. You will be responsible for managing and carrying out your own research project combining expertise between two groups within the department. You will hold, or be close to completion, of a relevant PhD and have experience analyzing high-throughput sequencing data.  Excellent communication skills and the ability to present your work and contribute to publications is essential.

The post is advertised for an initial period of 1 year with a possibility of extension for an additional year. However, the post-holder will be expected to apply for independently-funded fellowships or contribute to the securing of additional funding required to carry on the project beyond this time.

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 14 July 2025.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Wednesday 14 May 2025, interviews are likely to be scheduled for late May 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.

Advert information