"Postdoctoral Research Associate in Parasite Structural Biology"

University of Oxford - Department of Biochemistry

Location: South Parks Road, Oxford

About the role

The lab of Professor Matthew Higgins is seeking to appoint a talented Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Molecular Parasitology group at the Department of Biochemistry, who study the structural basis for host-parasite interactions mediated by human infective parasites that cause diseases such as malaria and sleeping sickness (www.higginslab.web.ox.ac.uk). The postholder will aim to understand structures of critical host-pathogen interactions.

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 should hold a PhD/DPhil, or be near completion of a PhD/DPhil in a subject relative to Biochemistry or Structural Biology and have experience in protein expression and purification and the analysis of protein-protein interactions. You should also have experience of structural biology methods, in particular cryogenic electron microscopy and data processing. Enthusiasm for working in a laboratory environment, a pro-active determination to drive forward an important research project and a willingness to work with others is also expected, together with excellent communication skills both written and verbal.

What We Offer

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family-friendly and financial benefits including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

The University also runs an enormous amount of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via the above 'Apply' button. 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 three referees and indicate whether we can contact them now.

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

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday 5th January 2026. Only applications received before this time can be considered. Interviews for shortlisted candidates to be held as soon as possible thereafter.