Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Receptor Structural Biology & Cancer Mechanisms

University of Oxford - Division of Structural Biology

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join Professor Christian Siebold’s laboratory, supporting a CRUK-funded Programme Award on Molecular Mechanisms of Morphogen Signalling in the Tumour Microenvironment. This is an exceptional opportunity to work at the interface of structural biology and cell biology, exploring the architecture and function of extracellular and membrane protein complexes involved in cell communication and cancer-relevant signalling pathways. You will be based at the Division of Structural Biology (STRUBI) and the Oxford Particle Imaging Centre (OPIC), providing ready access to state-of-the-art facilities, including access to high-end cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, and advanced protein production platforms. Importantly, you will contribute to cutting-edge research with clear translational relevance in cancer research.

In this role, you will manage your own research within the project, leading experimental design, protein production, purification, and structural, biophysical and cellular characterisation of multi-subunit protein complexes. You will independently collect and analyse cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography data, adapt and develop new protocols, and contribute to research publications, grant applications, and presentations at national and international conferences. You will collaborate closely with internal and external partners, including the Diamond Light Source synchrotron, and play a valuable role in advising colleagues and contributing to the supervision of students.

You will hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in a relevant discipline, such as chemistry, biology or a related field. You must have hands-on experience structural biology of extracellular and membrane proteins using single particle cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography. You will have demonstrable expertise, data collection and processing of X-ray data (including synchroton data collection), signle particle cryo-EM data using cutting edge microscopes such as Glacios or Krios.

You should be able to design and execute experiments independently, solve technical challenges, and analyse complex structural and biochemical data. Strong communication skills both written and verbal are essential, alongside evidence of contributing to research publications and presenting scientific results. You will be highly organised, capable of managing multiple aspects of a project simultaneously, and motivated to contribute ideas, develop new research directions, and support colleagues within a collaborative research environment.

Why Siebold Lab & this project?

• Work within a leading structural biology team focusing on membrane protein complexes, signalling and receptor pharmacology.
• Benefit from access to top-tier cryo-EM facilities and vibrant collaborations across the UK, including the UK Diamond Light Source synchrotron, and internationally.
• Target fundamental mechanisms with clear translational relevance to cancer, and other developmental and neurological diseases.

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 30 September 2028 and is funded by Cancer Research UK.

Only applications received before 12 midday on Thursday, 23 April 2026 will be considered. Please quote 183381 on all correspondence.