Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational Biophysics

About the role

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join Prof Philip Biggin’s lab to investigate processes and mechanisms associated with proteins central to cellular trafficking. The post is part of larger collaborative project with three other research groups (Francis Barr and Simon Newstead, both also at Oxford and Markus Seeger at Zürich) and builds on a substantial body of work already performed by this team. It represents a unique and exciting opportunity to undertake simulations that feed into and from extensive biochemical data in real time. It requires the application of advanced computational techniques spanning a range of temporal and spatial scales to address some important and fundamental questions regarding the nature of how trafficking is controlled within cells.

This post is funded by the Wellcome Trust up to 31st March 2026.

The actual starting salary offered will be based on qualifications and relevant skills acquired and will also be determined by the funding available.

About you

You will hold, or be close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline, ideally with a strong computational component. You will have demonstrated excellence in your doctoral research, as evidenced by publications in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals, and will be able to show a deep understanding of your research area together with clear evidence of independent intellectual and practical contributions. You will have substantial experience in advanced atomistic molecular dynamics of biological systems, as well as coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, and some familiarity with quantum mechanics calculations. Proven high-performance computing (HPC) experience and proficiency in Python are essential for success in this role.  You will possess excellent communication skills, including the ability to write clearly for publication, present your research effectively at conferences and seminars, and engage productively with collaborators and the wider research community. You will also demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively and supportively within a research group, and to supervise and mentor junior researchers and students.

What we offer

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, 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 loan scheme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

The University also runs an enormous amount of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via www.recruit.ox.ac.uk. You will be required to upload your curriculum vitae and a supporting statement, setting out how you meet the selection criteria for the post, using examples of your skills and experience. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement. As part of your application, you will be asked to provide details of two referees and indicate whether we can contact them now.

For further details, please refer to the How to apply section of the job description. Any further enquires may be directed to recruitment@bioch.ox.ac.uk.

The closing date is 12:00 noon on Monday 24^th November 2025. Only applications received before this time can be considered. Interviews for shortlisted candidates to be held on as soon as possible thereafter.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity

Advert information