Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Combinatorial Chemist in Polymer Nanoparticles

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 Dame Prof Molly Stevens’s lab at DPAG. The ideal candidate will be a motivated researcher with expertise in organic/polymer chemistry, a confident self-starter, collaborative team player, and a proven record of first-author publications.

In this role, you will design and synthesise lipid-like polymers (lipidoids) for nanoparticle formulations in nucleic acid delivery.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop hybrid polymer–lipid nanoparticles and functionalisation strategies for targeted drug delivery.
• Apply advanced characterisation techniques including cryo-TEM, DLS, SANS/SAXS, and SPARTA.
• Establish protocols for biomedical applications with team members.
• Manage research activities and project administration.
• Contribute actively to the Stevens Group and external collaborations.

Selection criteria:

• PhD/DPhil (or near completion) in chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology, or related field.
• Experience in organic synthesis, purification, and characterisation (NMR, LC-MS).
• Expertise in polymer/lipid nanoparticle synthesis and characterisation.
• Strong publication record.
• Independent research management skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

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 19^th January 2026.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 2^nd February 2026, 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.

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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