Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Organic Chemistry

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 Assistant to join Prof Molly Stevens’s lab at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery. Based in the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics and affiliated with the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, the Stevens Group develops fluorescent quantum nanomaterials for ultrasensitive point-of-care diagnostics. The role involves collaboration across nanotechnology, biosensing, optics, and machine learning. We welcome candidates with expertise in synthesising fluorescent materials (e.g. small molecules, polymers, nanomaterials) or in photophysics (e.g. FRET, TADF). The researcher will explore novel materials to enhance biosensor performance and work in a multidisciplinary team. Strong communication and teamwork are essential.

Key responsibilities:

• Design and synthesise nanomaterials with high brightness/stability
• Functionalise nanoparticles for biomarker recognition
• Test materials in model/patient systems
• Analyse data and support lab operations
• Collaborate across disciplines and institutions

Selection criteria:

• PhD/DPhil in a relevant field
• Expertise in synthesis or photophysics
• Experience with fluorescence techniques (PL, PLQY, TCSPC)

Refer to the Job Description for full details.

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 Friday 08 August.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 25 August 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, Bluesky 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.

DPAG and Sustainability

We have signed up to The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) and Green Impact, actively implementing and encouraging eco-friendly practices that reduce waste, promote energy efficiency, and promote bio-diversity. See the job description for more detail.

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