Research Assistant

Location: Department of Engineering Science, The Oxford Thermofluids Institute, Southwell Building, Osney Mead, Oxford, OX2 0ES

About the role

The Oxford Thermofluids Institute is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our established and internationally recognised research group.

Reporting to Professor Peter Ireland, the postholder will play a key role in supporting the Institute’s research activities and day-to-day operations. This role would suit someone who is motivated by high-quality research and interested in being an active and collaborative member of a skilled research team.

The successful candidate will work closely with a team of established researchers, contributing to ongoing projects in thermofluids and related areas. The role will involve supporting experimental and/or computational research activities, assisting with laboratory or facility operations where appropriate, contributing to data analysis and reporting, and helping to ensure the smooth running of research programmes.

About you

We are looking for someone who is proactive, organised, and collaborative, with strong technical skills and an interest in delivering high-quality research output within a multidisciplinary team. The ability to work effectively as part of a multi-professional team, while also showing initiative and independence, is essential.

This post offers an excellent opportunity to develop research expertise within a supportive and high-performing academic environment.

How to apply

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via our e-recruitment system and should include the covering letter/supporting statement (describing how you meet the criteria), a CV, and names of two academic references.

The position is a variable hour post available on a fixed term basis until 30 September 2026. 

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Wednesday 25th March 2026. 

Informal enquiries may be addressed to The HR team:  hr@eng.ox.ac.uk 

Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford. The Department is committed to equality and valuing diversity and holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting gender equality in academia. The University is a Living Wage Employer, holds an Athena Swan Silver Award, an HR Excellence in Research and a Race Equality Charter Bronze Award and is a Stonewall Diversity Champion. Our staff and students come from all over the world, and we seek to create a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through our EDI Committee, working groups and networks, for example eng.ox.ac.uk/women-in-engineering, as well as a number of family friendly policies.

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