At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop innovative biomaterials for advanced therapeutics and drug delivery.
- Company: Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, a hub for interdisciplinary research in Oxford.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, excellent pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Inclusive environment welcoming diverse candidates, with strong support for career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in health science while collaborating with top researchers across disciplines.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in organic/polymer chemistry or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery (Kavli INsD), established in March 2021, brings together over 30 faculty and 450 researchers across disciplines to tackle global health challenges. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and providing cutting‑edge facilities, it encourages innovation and shared discovery.
At the Department of Physiology Anatomy & Genetics (DPAG) we undertake discovery science where we reassemble physiological processes at the molecular, cellular, tissue and systems level of organisation. We are committed not only to innovative research and the highest standard of teaching, but also to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment.
We are seeking to appoint two Postdoctoral Research Assistants to join Professor Dame Molly Stevens’s lab. The posts require complementary chemistry skills to support ongoing research in the development of biomaterials for advanced therapeutic and drug delivery applications. We are looking for talented chemists with broad expertise in synthesis and characterisation of polymers, small molecules, and/or soft materials for biomedical applications. The role is highly multidisciplinary involving collaboration with researchers working within the fields of materials science, bioengineering, chemistry and biology.
Successful candidates will engage with researchers both within the lab and across partner institutions, requiring strong organisational abilities to navigate complex, multi‑team projects. This post is available immediately for a fixed‑term of 18 months, with the possibility of part‑time appointments being considered.
Key responsibilities:- Develop research questions and conduct research in the design and synthesis of innovative polymer‑based and nanoscale soft biomaterials for advanced therapeutic and drug delivery applications.
- Characterise materials and evaluate their structure–property relationships using appropriate analytical and physicochemical techniques to optimise material performance.
- Contribute to translation‑focused optimisation, including in vitro evaluation, bio‑ and immunocompatibility, and scalability.
- Hold, or be near to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or related field.
- Experience in one of the following areas: Polymer chemistry – design and synthesis of polymers using living or controlled polymerisation methods, and/or synthesis of small molecules required for polymer synthesis.
- Experience in chemical characterisation techniques, for example gel permeation chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, high‑performance liquid chromatography, optical spectroscopy, and microscopy.
- Previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations, with a proven track record of first author publications in peer reviewed journals.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycling 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.
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 10 August 2026. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 31 August 2026 and will be held on Microsoft Teams.
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. Our policies, practices and Respectful Behaviours Framework underpin this commitment. Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under‑represented in academic posts in Oxford.
Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Chemical Synthesis for Advanced Therapeutics in Oxford employer: Corehr
Sheffield Hallam University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Smart Interactive Technologies Lab. As a Research Fellow, you will have access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects aimed at improving maternal health outcomes, all while benefiting from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth and development. Join us in making a meaningful difference in healthcare through responsible and human-centred digital innovation.
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We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Chemical Synthesis for Advanced Therapeutics in Oxford
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Chemical Synthesis for Advanced Therapeutics in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at Corehr. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
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Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
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Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
