Louise Johnson Associate Professorship of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry

The Department of Biochemistry is recruiting an Associate Professor (APTF) working in the broad area of molecular cell biology, whose research focuses on dissecting molecular mechanisms involved in fundamental cellular processes in either prokaryotes or eukaryotes. 

We particularly encourage applicants working molecular mechanisms related to metabolism or cellular chemistry, including, for example, pathogen-host co-metabolism, the characterization of novel metabolic pathways, or quantitative approaches to understanding complex metabolic systems, but we also welcome applicants working in other areas of molecular and cellular biology. We are also keen to hear from candidates who specialise in technology or method development to advance their disciplines. 

This appointment joins a cohort of academic positions named the Louise Johnson Associate Professorships, in recognition of Professor Louise Johnson’s pioneering research in the Department and her unstinting mentorship of women and other underrepresented scientists. 

Applications are encouraged from early or mid-career researchers with a track record of leading innovative and independent programmes of work. We particularly encourage applications from women, ethnic minority groups, and those from other backgrounds that are underrepresented in academic posts in Oxford. You will be joining a friendly, vibrant, democratic and international academic community, and a department that already has strong representation of women in leadership roles, and one in which everyone feels valued and is treated fairly. 

Depending on your research topic, you will join one of our collaborative interdisciplinary research themes applying biochemical, biophysical and computational approaches to major questions in cell & developmental biology, genetics, microbiology, human health and infectious disease processes. High quality laboratory & office space will be provided in the Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, where you will gain access to outstanding colleagues, facilities and expertise to support your research, including state of the art biological imaging, structural biology and biochemical facilities. We have a strong commitment to career development and mentoring at all career stages, and all our groups have access to a range of departmental and University training programmes. 

In addition to your research, you will contribute to teaching the next generation of Biochemists through our 4-year Masters-level degree course in Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and by acting as a Tutorial Fellow at Trinity College.

You should have a higher degree (DPhil/PhD) and postdoctoral experience in a relevant biologically-related science; an internationally recognised research record, or clear potential to achieve this, demonstrated through impactful publications appropriate to your career stage; the ability to develop and lead an independent research programme, have awareness of an ethical and inclusive research culture, and secure research funding; a commitment to teaching and inspiring undergraduates from all backgrounds, helping them to realise their full potential; strong communication and interpersonal skills; the ability and willingness to contribute to departmental and college administration, outreach, and widening access.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday 20 April 2026. Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held over two days between 10-11 June 2026 in Oxford. Applicants are therefore asked to keep both dates available in the event that they are shortlisted.

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