"Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Non-canonical nucleotides in cancer"

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the Nuffield Department of Medicine and work in Professor Skirmantas Kriaucionis’s research group investigating the molecular functions of DNA modifications and how defects in these pathways contribute to neoplasia. The project focuses on the emergence and functional consequences of non-canonical components in nucleic acids and nucleotides, including their metabolism and roles in mutagenesis and cancer development.

You will be responsible for undertaking a research programme using a wide range of biochemical and molecular biology techniques, including mammalian cell culture, CRISPR-based genome engineering, protein purification, enzyme characterisation and LC-MS. You will design and perform experiments, manage your own research and administrative activities, maintain accurate electronic laboratory records, supervise and train junior staff, contribute to laboratory management and biological safety, and communicate findings through reports, manuscripts, meetings and presentations. You will also collaborate closely with members of the research group and contribute to the development of new research ideas and funding proposals.

It is essential that you hold a PhD/DPhil (or close to completion) in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry or a related discipline and have a strong background in nucleic acid chemistry and biochemistry. You will have experience in standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques and a track record of scientific productivity, including first-author publications or preprints. You will be highly organised, attentive to detail, and able to manage a varied workload while meeting deadlines. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team are essential.

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 until 28 February 2030 and is funded by the World Cancer Research Fund.

Only applications received before 12 midday on Friday 13 March 2026 will be considered. Please quote 184879 on all correspondence.

Location: Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ

Contact Person: Kristina Limbu | Vacancy ID: 184879 | Closing Date & Time: 13-Mar-2026 12:00

Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 7 | Contact Email: recruitment@ndm.ox.ac.uk

Salary (£): Research Grade 7: £39,424 - £47,779 with a discretionary range to £53,483 p.a. (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).