Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Combinatorial Chemist – Polymer Nanoparticles

**Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term for 18 months or 31 July 2026
(whichever is soonest)**





**About us:**



At the Department of Physiology Anatomy & Genetics (DPAG), we conduct
discovery science where we reassemble physiological processes across
molecular, cellular, tissue, and systems levels. Our research bridges basic
science with translational medicine and fosters collaboration between the
physical and life sciences. We are dedicated to innovative research,
excellence in teaching, and promoting an inclusive, supportive work
environment





**Overview of the role:**



We seek a motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join Prof. Molly
Stevens’s lab at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery. The ideal
candidate will have expertise in organic/polymer chemistry, a proven track
record of first-author publications, and strong teamwork and leadership
skills.





In this role, you will design and synthesize a library of lipid-like polymers
(lipidoids) for nanoparticle formulations in nucleic acid delivery. The
position is available from January 2025 for 18 months, with part-time
appointments considered.





**Key responsibilities:**



• Develop polymer-lipid nanoparticles and design functionalization strategies
for drug delivery.



• Use advanced nanomaterial characterization techniques, including cryo-TEM,
DLS, SAXS/SANS, and SPARTA.



• Collaborate across disciplines to apply materials to biomedical research.



• Manage research activities and contribute to the Stevens Group's
multidisciplinary environment.





**Selection criteria:**



• PhD (completed/near completion) in chemistry, nanotechnology, or a related
field.



• Expertise in organic synthesis, nanoparticle development, and
characterization.



• Strong publication record and collaborative skills.



**What we offer:**



Your wellbeing at work matters, so we offer a range of family friendly and
financial benefits including:



• An excellent contributory pension scheme



• 38 days annual leave



• A comprehensive range of childcare services



• Family leave schemes



• Cycle and electric car loan schemes



• Employee Assistance Programme



• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs



• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans





While this is a full-time role, we welcome applications from individuals who
wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working
arrangements.





**How to apply:**



Please provide a supporting statement outlining how you meet the selection
criteria along with your CV, and the details of two referees as part of your
online application.



The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 6th January 2025.



Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 20th January
2025, and will be held on Microsoft Teams.



Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic
candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.





**Follow us:**



Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, X and Instagram to learn more about our
work and culture. Informal enquiries about the role may be directed to the
DPAG HR Team: hr@dpag.ox.ac.uk





**DPAG ’s Statement of Inclusion:**



We, as a Department and Community, will be considerate and welcoming of all
people, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil
partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity, and socio-economic background. We acknowledge
societal inequalities and how these impact us, and those around us, personally
and professionally. Our policies, practices and Respectful Behaviours
Framework underpin this commitment.