Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Cell Biology

About us:

The Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery (Kavli INsD), established in March 2021, brings together over 30 faculty and 450 researchers across disciplines to tackle global health challenges. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and providing cutting-edge facilities, it encourages innovation and shared discovery, and benefits from the close proximity of the scientific departments as well as advanced imaging and characterisation facilities and state-of-the-art-instrumentation. 

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 to appoint an outstanding and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Cell Biology to join Professor Dame Molly Stevens’s laboratory at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford. The postholder will develop novel cell biology-based experimental platforms, including 3D in vitro, ex vivo and/or in vivo models, for disease modelling and advanced therapeutic applications. They will investigate how cells interact with engineered microenvironments and biomaterials, generating fundamental biological insights to better understand human disease and enable the development of next-generation therapeutic strategies. 

Key responsibilities:

• Develop & apply novel cell biology-based experimental platforms, including 3D in vitro, ex vivo and/or in vivo models, for disease modelling and advanced therapeutic applications.
• Investigate cell–material interactions, including, cellular responses to physical, chemical and biological cues.
• Develop, optimise & implement experimental & characterisation protocols to gain mechanistic insights into cell behaviour, tissue development and cell–material interactions.
• Provide scientific input & feedback from a cell biology perspective to support the design, interpretation & development of related projects.
• Undertake associated data analysis & interpretation.
• Support the operation & management of shared cell culture facilities, providing training, technical expertise & guidance.

See Job Description (via the 'Apply' button above) for full list of responsibilities. 

Selection criteria:

• Hold, or be close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in cell biology, stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, biomedical sciences, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated in-depth understanding of cell biology, including cellular behaviour, phenotype, signalling, differentiation and responses to physical, chemical & biological cues.
• Demonstrated expertise in human or animal-derived cell culture, including pluripotent stem cell culture where relevant, and the development or application of advanced biological model systems.
• Strong experience in cell biology and functional characterisation of cellular and tissue phenotypes.
• Experience with a range of advanced characterisation techniques relevant to cell and tissue engineering.

See Job Description for full list of criteria. 

What we offer:

We provide a supportive working environment and comprehensive benefits:

• Contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• Childcare support & family leave
• Cycle & electric car schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Social & sports club membership
• Discounted travel schemes 

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working/other flexible arrangements.  

How to apply:

Please submit a CV, and supporting statement addressing the selection criteria (via the 'Apply' button above).

Closing date: 12 noon, 14 July 2026

Interviews: Week commencing 27 July 2026 (via Microsoft Teams)

Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford. 

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