Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Epitranscriptomics

Location: Target Discovery Institute, NDM Research Building, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FZ

Salary: Research Grade 7: Salary in range £39,424 - £47,779 per annum (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).

Advert text:

We are seeking to appoint two Postdoctoral Research Scientists in Epitranscriptomics to join Dr Chunxiao Song’s research group at the Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine. You will contribute to research investigating the role of pseudouridine and pseudouridine synthases (PUS) in cancer, alongside exploring the clinical applications of pseudouridine in circulating cell-free RNA for cancer diagnostics. The group develops cutting-edge technologies for high-resolution mapping of DNA and RNA modifications, translating discoveries in epigenetics and epitranscriptomics into diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities.

You will be responsible for managing and leading research projects, developing and adapting experimental techniques, testing hypotheses and analysing scientific data. The role includes contributing to research development and funding proposals, preparing scientific reports and journal articles, presenting research findings and providing specialist advice on experimental protocols and techniques. You will also collaborate with researchers and partner institutions, contributing to the development of innovative approaches in RNA biology and epitranscriptomics.

It is essential that you hold, or are close to completing, a relevant PhD/DPhil in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, together with relevant research experience. You should have strong practical skills in molecular biology, biochemistry or cell biology, specialist knowledge of RNA biology or epitranscriptomics, and the ability to independently manage and lead research projects. Excellent communication skills and experience contributing to scientific publications are also required. Experience with next-generation sequencing, bioinformatic data analysis, liquid biopsy or cell-free RNA sequencing, supervising researchers or students, and first-author publications in a relevant field would be advantageous.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online and you will need to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. Please restrict your documentation to your CV and supporting statement only. Any other documents will be requested at a later date.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract for 24 months and is funded by Cancer Research UK

Only applications received before 12 midday on 11 November 2026 will be considered. Please quote 188917 on all correspondence.

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