Postdoctoral Research Associate in Single Molecule Analytics

University of Oxford - Department of Chemistry

Location:	Oxford
Salary:	£39,424 per annum. Grade 7
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 13th April 2026
Closes: 21st May 2026
Job Ref: 185939

Location: Chemistry Research Laboratory, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA

The Krishnan Lab works in the broad area of soft condensed matter at the nanometer scale and has a long- standing interest in measuring and understanding the properties and interactions of molecular-scale matter, e.g., biological macromolecules.

Recently the group pioneered “molecular stereometry” –- a new experimental approach to measuring a molecule’s size and shape in the solution phase (Science 2025). Our microchip-based escape-time technology platform now enables measurements of the physical properties of macromolecules such as their electrical charge, size and 3D conformation with unprecedented precision, one at a time and in real time (Nature, 2010; Nature Nanotechnology, 2012, 2017; Science 2025). The project involves a combination of optical imaging, nanofabrication, data analysis, and biochemical familiarity and experience.

The group is looking for a highly motivated and driven postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in single molecule measurements to contribute strongly to a wave of ongoing developments deploying the escape-time technology on a broad range of measurement problems in biology. This position requires expertise in single molecule fluorescence experiments: specifically, experience and a strong interest in instrumentation, focusing on building or modifying experimental set-ups for optical imaging. Experience and interest in data analysis and the ability to perform basic biochemical work with proteins and DNA will be highly rated in the selection process. The ideal candidate will have recently obtained a PhD in physics, biophysics, biochemistry, physical chemistry, engineering, or a related area, or have submitted a PhD thesis prior to taking up the appointment.

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your application. In your supporting statement (<5 pages), please explain how you meet each of the selection criteria found in the job description.

Certificates, references and research papers should not be provided at this stage.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday, 21 May 2026, UK time. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.

The University of Oxford and The Department of Chemistry are Silver Athena SWAN holders. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and ethnic minority candidates, who are under-represented in Chemistry research posts in Oxford.