At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop innovative computational methods for genetic research and contribute to exciting projects.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Department of Statistics.
- Benefits: Full-time position with a 3-year contract, vibrant research community, and opportunities for collaboration.
- Other info: Engage with top researchers and present your work at conferences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in genetics while developing your research profile in a world-leading environment.
- Qualifications: PhD/DPhil in a quantitative subject and coding experience required.
The predicted salary is between 33075 - 40425 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the Department of Statistics at the University of Oxford, working on the development of the Genetic Inheritance Graph (GIG), a novel computational framework for integrating structural variants into genetic genealogies. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of new mathematical and computational methods that will enable researchers to capture genetic history more fully and investigate how structural variants influence human health, bacterial adaptation, and the productivity and resilience of crops and livestock.
You will work closely with the project team at Oxford, including Professor Anastasia Ignatieva, Professor Gil McVean, and Dr Yan Wong, with opportunities for wider collaboration with researchers at the University of Bath and leading international experts across human, bacterial, and agricultural genetics. You will contribute to the development of the core giglib software library, translating mathematical concepts underlying the GIG into efficient data structures and algorithms. Your work will also involve developing algorithms to manipulate and analyse GIGs, creating efficient methods for translating GIGs into pangenome variation graphs, and developing flexible and realistic simulations of genomes containing structural variants.
You will manage your own research activities, adapting existing methodologies and developing new computational approaches to address challenging problems in population genetics. You will analyse quantitative data, develop and refine computational methods, and contribute to high-quality scientific software and research outputs. You will also collaborate in the preparation of research publications and software outputs, participate in regular group meetings, and present your work at internal and external meetings, seminars, and conferences. The role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your research profile while working within a vibrant, world-leading community of statistical and population geneticists at Oxford.
It is essential that you hold, or are close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant quantitative subject such as statistics, mathematics, computer science, statistical or population genetics, or a related discipline. You should have relevant coding experience and a strong background in software development, algorithm design, and the production of high-quality scientific software. A strong motivation to work on problems in genetics is essential, although prior experience in genetics is not required. You should be able to manage your own research and associated activities, communicate effectively with a range of audiences, and contribute to research publications and presentations.
This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract for 3 years. Start date as soon as possible and no later than March 2027. The deadline for applications is midday 12 October 2026, and interviews are expected to take place on 27 and 28 October 2026.
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Oxford employer: Corehr
As a leading research institution, we offer an exceptional environment for postdoctoral researchers to thrive, particularly in the vibrant city of Liverpool. Our commitment to collaboration across prestigious universities fosters a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and inclusivity, while our hybrid working model supports a healthy work-life balance. With ample opportunities for professional growth and a focus on diversity, we are dedicated to creating a meaningful and rewarding experience for all employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Corehr, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Corehr. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Corehr. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Corehr. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Corehr. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Corehr to drive research projects forward.
