Research Assistant in Single Molecule Biophysics

Overview

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.