Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Biotechnology

Location:
Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PJ

This is an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join a project developing robotic tools for long term directed evolution of microbes. The project team includes experts in biotechnology, mechanical engineering, software, and robotics. The candidate will have a broad remit to take leadership roles in the research team, including by co-designing new research questions and defining application domains. They will also have opportunities to provide guidance to other members of the project group (such as PhD and collaborating Postdoctoral Researchers), and to present their work at conferences and other meetings.

We are seeking ambitious candidates that hold a PhD/DPhil (or are near completion) in fields relevant to the project. To succeed in the role, it is essential that candidates have direct experience in the design, build, software development, and experimental application of robotic tools for automated long-term evolution of microbes.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via our e-recruitment system (via the above “Apply” button) and should include the covering letter/supporting statement (describing how you meet the criteria), a CV, and names of two academic references.

The position is a fixed-term post available for 8 months.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Friday 06 March 2026.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Harrison Steel:
Harrison.steel@eng.

Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford. The Department is committed to equality and valuing diversity and holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting gender equality in academia. The University is a Living Wage Employer, holds an Athena Swan Silver Award, an HR Excellence in Research and a Race Equality Charter Bronze Award and is a Stonewall Diversity Champion.

Our staff and students come from all over the world, and we seek to create a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through our EDI Committee, working groups and networks, for example , as well as a number of family friendly policies.

Professor Harrison Steel

£39,424 to £47,779 per annum. Research Grade 7