At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic research team to explore cancer biology and develop innovative experimental techniques.
- Company: Leading oncology research department at the University of Oxford.
- Benefits: 38 days annual leave, childcare services, discounted travel, and social club memberships.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and equality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while collaborating with top experts in the field.
- Qualifications: PhD/DPhil in relevant field, experience in cancer biology, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Department of Oncology, Old Road Campus Research Building, OX3 7DQ, Headington, Oxford
We have an exciting opportunity to join Dr Monica Olcina’s research team as a short-term postdoctoral researcher. Dr Olcina is interested in understanding how tumours thrive in immunosuppressive microenvironments and exploit innate immune pathways for their survival advantage, with the aim of identifying tumour-specific vulnerabilities to improve treatment-induced toxicity. The available position is to support ongoing projects focused on understanding the role of the complement system in driving treatment resistance in tumours with immunosuppressive microenvironments, such as paediatric high-grade gliomas.
The successful candidate will manage their own research and administrative activities, adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols, test hypotheses and analyse scientific data, and contribute ideas for new research projects. The role also involves collaboration with colleagues across partner institutions and research groups. This post is based at the Old Road Campus Research Building, OX3 7DQ, and is offered on a full-time fixed term basis for nine months.
About you
You will hold a relevant PhD/DPhil (or be close to completion), together with relevant experience and have a first-author publication related to cancer biology, or clear evidence that this will be achieved. You will possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes. For example, knowledge of macrophage responses, complement-mediated biology and the tumour micro-environment. Experience of human and murine primary cell culture, western blotting, qRT-PCR, IHC/immunofluorescence, FACS, bulk and sc-RNA-sequencing analysis is essential. You will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. You will be able to manage your own academic research and associated activities, contribute ideas for new research projects, and support research income generation. Knowledge of and previous experience of working in brain tumour research would be advantageous.
What We Offer
As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
- 38 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
- Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
You will be required to upload a supporting statement (setting out how you meet the selection criteria), a curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of two referees as part of your online application. Only applications received before 12:00PM on Monday, 27th July 2026 can be considered. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Committed to equality and valuing diversity.
Postdoctoral Researcher 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher 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 Researcher 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.
