Research Assistant

Location: Department of Biochemistry, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join a growing research programme investigating how transposable elements contribute to developmental gene regulation and transcript innovation.

The successful candidate will contribute to projects focused on the discovery and characterization of transposable element-derived promoters, alternative transcript architectures and developmental gene regulation in mouse development. A major focus of the role will be the analysis and validation of novel transcript isoforms identified using long-read sequencing technologies, including the characterization of TE-derived developmental isoforms.

The postholder will work closely with PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and collaborators and will contribute to both computational and experimental aspects of developmental genomics projects.

This full-time fixed-term post is funded by the Wellcome Trust for up to 12 months in the first instance.

The actual starting salary offered will be based on qualifications and relevant skills acquired and will also be determined by the funding available.

About you

You will hold a degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Developmental Biology, or a closely related discipline, and have demonstrated experience in developmental biology, stem cell biology, gene regulation, transcriptomics, or transposable element biology. Experience analysing high-throughput sequencing datasets is essential, together with expertise in long-read transcriptomics (Oxford Nanopore and/or PacBio), transcript annotation, and isoform calling. You will have experience analysing transposable elements, repetitive elements, or locus-resolved genomic datasets, and be proficient in the use of computational tools and scripting languages such as R, Python, and Bash for biological data analysis. You will be able to analyse, interpret, and communicate complex biological datasets clearly and accurately, while demonstrating excellent organisational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritise competing demands, and meet deadlines. Strong written and verbal communication skills, scientific curiosity, effective problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team are essential. Experience with molecular cloning, CRISPR genome engineering, cell line generation, or the functional validation of candidate regulatory elements would be advantageous.

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via www.recruit.ox.ac.uk and Vacancy ID 187225. You will be required to upload your curriculum vitae and a supporting statement, setting out how you meet the selection criteria for the post, using examples of your skills and experience. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement. As part of your application, you will be asked to provide details of two referees and indicate whether we can contact them now.

For further details, please refer to the How to apply section of the job description, click the 'Apply' button above. Any further enquires may be directed to recruitment@bioch.ox.ac.uk.  

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday 13 July 2026. Only applications received before this time can be considered. Interviews for shortlisted candidates to be held as soon as possible thereafter.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity

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