Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Biosensing Surfaces

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 a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join Professor Dame Molly Stevens’s lab at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery. The project focuses on developing advanced biosensing platforms through the design and fabrication of bioactive surfaces, aimed at personalised diagnostics. The post is available from August 2025 for 18 months, with part-time options considered.

Key responsibilities:

• Design, fabricate, and optimise nanostructured bioactive surfaces for biomolecular detection.
• Establish Raman-spectroscopy based hyperspectral analysis methods for complex biofluids.
• Collaborate across disciplines to integrate materials into biomedical applications.
• Analyse and interpret data using chemometrics, ML/AI, or multivariate analysis.
• Manage research activities and contribute to a collaborative research environment.

Selection Criteria:

• PhD/DPhil (or near completion) in chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology, or related field.
• Expertise in surface chemistry, Raman spectroscopy, and nanomaterial characterisation.
• Proven publication record and excellent communication and project management skills.

What we offer:

Your wellbeing at work matters, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

• 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 12^th May.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 26^th May, 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, X and Instagram to learn more about our work and culture. Informal enquiries about the role may be directed to the DPAG HR Team: hr@dpag.ox.ac.uk

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.

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