"Postdoctoral Research Associates in the Molecular Analysis of Bacterial Outer Membrane Biogenesis"

University of Oxford - Department of Biochemistry

Location: South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU

About the role

We are seeking to appoint two talented Postdoctoral Research Associates to undertake complementary projects investigating bacterial outer membrane protein biogenesis in the group of Prof Ben Berks FRS. Building on our recent work in this area (Nature (2015) 647: 479-487) you will carry out structure-function and molecular bacteriological studies using a range of approaches including protein purification, in vitro and cellular protein characterization, proteomics, and high throughput genetic analysis. Structural studies will be carried out in collaboration with Prof. Susan Lea FRS FMedSci at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the successful candidates will have the opportunity to spend periods at St. Jude in Memphis, USA.

Candidates will be interviewed for both posts through a single interview process. The successful candidates will have their own distinct projects but should also be prepared to work closely with each other and other group members working on Bacteroidota cell envelope processes.

These full-time fixed-term posts are funded by the European Research Council for up to 3 years 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, or be near completion of, a PhD/DPhil in Biochemistry, Molecular Microbiology, or related discipline. You must have proven and substantive expertise in the purification and characterization of membrane proteins, in protein characterization in a cell biology context especially in bacteria, and in recombinant DNA techniques. Proven and substantive experience in any of the following would be advantageous: molecular bacteriology including the construction of chromosomal mutations in bacteria; isolation of proteins expressed at native levels; proteomics and the analysis of proteomics data; high throughput genomic methods; the investigation of protein transport or membrane protein biogenesis. You will be highly organised with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team and have good communication skills. A good publication record in areas relevant to the project is expected, taking career stage into account.

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 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. Any further enquires may be directed to recruitment@bioch.ox.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday 9th March 2026. Only applications received before this time can be considered. Interviews for shortlisted candidates to be held as soon as possible thereafter.