Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Structural Biology

Location: Division of Structural Biology, Building for Genomic Medicine, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN

The Nuffield Department of Medicine is seeking a highly skilled Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join Professor Thomas Bowden’s group within the Division of Structural Biology (STRUBI). Funded by CEPI, this exciting project focuses on integrated X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM studies to investigate viral glycoprotein–antibody interactions. You will work in a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment alongside experts in protein biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, virology, and advanced imaging. STRUBI provides state-of-the-art facilities and strong national and international collaborations, enabling high-impact research into virus–host interactions and mechanisms relevant to global health challenges.

You will manage your own research portfolio, developing and refining biochemical and structural methods, designing experiments, testing hypotheses, and analysing multidimensional datasets across crystallography, cryo-EM/cryoET, and biophysical assays. You will contribute to publications, present your findings at conferences, and represent the group externally. The role involves producing and purifying protein samples for structural and functional studies, supporting collaborative projects, advising colleagues on experimental techniques, and assisting in the coordination of junior researchers. You will also contribute to scientific discussions, working hypotheses, and new project ideas within the group and its broader network.

You will hold a PhD/DPhil (or be close to completion) in structural biology, biophysics, biochemistry, virology, or a closely related field. You must have demonstrable experience in structural biology, including X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-EM/cryoET, ideally with high-resolution studies of glycoproteins or membrane proteins. You will bring strong skills in computational protein design (e.g., RFdiffusion, ProteinMPNN, alphadesign), protein production and purification, and experience with biophysical or cell-based assays. Evidence of research excellence—such as first-author publications in leading journals—is essential, alongside excellent communication skills and the ability to present to specialist and non-specialist audiences. You will be capable of working independently, contributing to the supervision of junior researchers, and collaborating effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online and you will need to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. Please restrict your documentation to your CV and supporting statement only. Any other documents will be requested at a later date.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract for 36 months and is funded by CEPI.

Only applications received before 12 midday on 19 January 2026 will be considered. Please quote 182999 on all correspondence.

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