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"Research Assistant in Single Molecule Biophysics"

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Research Assistant in Single Molecule Biophysics

RESEARCH GRADE 6

12 March 2026, 12:00 UK time

Location

Oxford, UK

University of Oxford

Type

Fixed-term until 16 October 2026

Salary

£35,681 - £41,636 per annum

Required Qualifications

First degree in Physics
Laser-darkfield microscopy of gold nanorods
Python programming for data control/acquisition/analysis
iDS polarization-sensitive cameras

Research Areas

Single Molecule Biophysics
Polarization microscopy
Gold nanorods
Rotary Motors in the Membrane
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Research Assistant in Single Molecule Biophysics

Research Assistant in Single Molecule Biophysics

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant in Single Molecule Biophysics to join the Department of Physics at the University of Oxford.

The post is available on a fixed-term basis until 16 October 2026 and is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation as part of the SYNERGY project “Rotary Motors in the Membrane: Understanding Nature to Improve Design”. This project focuses on polarization microscopy of gold nanorods within the framework of the Oxford component of the SYNERGY programme. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research in single-molecule biophysics within the Berry lab, based at the Clarendon Laboratory and the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery.

Reporting to Professor Richard Berry, the successful candidate will manage their own research and administrative activities, contribute to project planning and development of new research ideas, and apply and adapt specialist methodologies in laser-darkfield microscopy. The role involves designing research materials, gathering and analysing quantitative data, conducting systematic literature reviews, contributing to publications and conference presentations, and supporting the day-to-day administration of the project. The post-holder will also represent the research group at meetings and collaborate with colleagues across partner institutions.

Applicants should hold a first degree in Physics and have experience with laser-darkfield microscopy of gold nanorods. They should demonstrate programming skills in Python relevant to the control, acquisition and analysis of data from iDS polarization-sensitive cameras, together with sufficient specialist knowledge to work within established research programmes. Excellent communication skills, experience of adapting methodologies, and the ability to manage independent research activities are essential.

Previous experience of working within a research team and contributing to new project ideas will be an advantage.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Prof Richard Berry (richard.berry@physics.ox.ac.uk)

Only applications received before midday (UK time) on Thursday 12 March 2026 can be considered. You will be required to upload a statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.

Contact Person: HR Team
Vacancy ID: 185155
Closing Date & Time: 12-Mar-2026 12:00
Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 6
Contact Email: recruitment@physics.ox.ac.uk
Salary (£): £35,681 - £41,636 per annum

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for the Research Assistant in Single Molecule Biophysics role?

Applicants must hold a first degree in Physics and have hands-on experience with laser-darkfield microscopy of gold nanorods. Essential skills include Python programming for controlling, acquiring, and analyzing data from iDS polarization-sensitive cameras. Excellent communication skills and the ability to manage independent research are required. Previous team experience is advantageous. Explore more on research assistant jobs or thriving in research roles.

🔬What are the main responsibilities in this Single Molecule Biophysics position?

The role involves managing research and administrative activities, contributing to project planning, adapting laser-darkfield microscopy methodologies, designing materials, analyzing quantitative data, conducting literature reviews, and supporting publications/conferences. You will represent the Berry lab at meetings and collaborate across SYNERGY partners. Check research jobs for similar opportunities.

📅What is the application deadline and process for this University of Oxford job?

Applications close at midday UK time on Thursday 12 March 2026. Submit online with a statement of research interests, CV, and two referees. Only complete applications before the deadline will be considered. Direct enquiries to Prof Richard Berry at richard.berry@physics.ox.ac.uk. Use our free resume template and cover letter template to prepare.

💰What is the salary, duration, and employment type for this role?

Salary is £35,681 - £41,636 per annum on RESEARCH GRADE 6. The position is fixed-term until 16 October 2026, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation SYNERGY project. Full-time staff role in the Department of Physics. View university salaries for comparisons.

🧬What research areas will this position cover at the Clarendon Laboratory?

Focus on single-molecule biophysics using polarization microscopy of gold nanorods in the SYNERGY project “Rotary Motors in the Membrane”. Work in the Berry lab at Clarendon Laboratory and Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery. Ideal for those interested in biophysics innovation. See related advice in how to excel as a research assistant.

🌍Is there visa sponsorship or relocation support available?

The job posting does not mention visa sponsorship or relocation support. Candidates should confirm eligibility with the HR team at recruitment@physics.ox.ac.uk. International applicants may need to check UK visa requirements independently.
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