Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Molecular Biology

The University of Oxford is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Molecular Biology to work within the Centre for Human Genetics on cutting-edge synthetic genome DNA assembly. Funded by a major grant from the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA), the project focuses on creating synthetic organelle genomes for real-world testing in crops such as potatoes and wheat. The successful candidate will collaborate with Professors Chris O'Callaghan, Steve Kelly, and Francesco Licausi to design, construct, and test large DNA molecules using innovative recombinant DNA methylase technology. Responsibilities include planning and executing laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and managing administrative research activities. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in a relevant discipline and robust expertise in molecular cloning, DNA extraction, and protein production.

• Plan, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments focused on synthetic genome DNA assembly and molecular biology.
• Design constructs and test novel approaches using recombinant DNA methylase technology.
• Manage and maintain bacterial cultures and perform recombinant protein expression and purification.
• Handle the extraction and manipulation of long DNA molecules of significant base-pair length.
• Contribute to administrative activities and manage own academic research program.
• Adapt existing protocols and develop new scientific techniques and experimental procedures.