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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to research fungi and bacteria interactions in the gut.
- Company: Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford - a hub for innovative microbiology research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive environment for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in microbiology and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Qualifications: PhD in microbiology or related field with experience in microbial culturing.
- Other info: Fixed-term position for 3 years, starting early 2026, with excellent training opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 33900 - 45500 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join a dynamic, productive, and interdisciplinary research group, based in the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford. A key goal of the project is to understand how fungi and bacteria compete in the mammalian gut and use this to identify communities that inhibit the growth and virulence of the major fungal pathogen Candida albicans.
While the gut microbiome is intensively studied, the fungi have been neglected and yet are critical for the balance between health and disease. To meet this need, the post-holder will carry out research to understand how C. albicans colonises the mammalian gut and interacts with communities of human gut bacteria. Working with a team including microbiologists, theoretical biologists and bioinformaticians, the holder of this position will perform experimental work with Candida and anaerobic gut bacteria from the human gut microbiome, with application of both in‑vitro and in‑vivo germ‑free methods.
In addition to research, the post holder will provide guidance to less experienced members of the research group. The post-holder should hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD in microbiology or a related discipline and have extensive experience in microbial culturing. You should be highly motivated, organised and able to work independently as well as part of a team. Expertise with methods associated with the study of anaerobic microbiome communities and/or the study of C. albicans or a related fungal species are essential.
This is a fixed‑term appointment available for 3 years in the first instance with the position available from early 2026. If you are interested in this role, and have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. Informal enquiries could be sent to Prof Kevin Foster via email: kevin.foster@path.ox.ac.uk.
The lab has a strong record of training and nurturing lab members and the great majority of postdoctoral researchers that have been in the labs have gone on to start their own research groups as principal investigators. Only applications submitted online and received before noon on Friday 30 January 2026 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter. At the Dunn School we are committed to supporting the professional and career development of our postdocs and research staff. To help them thrive and achieve their ambitions, we have created a comprehensive range of opportunities and initiatives designed to provide an exceptional launchpad for their future careers.
£39,424 to £47,779 p.a. Research Grade 7
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Microbiology in Oxford employer: Economicsnetwork
Contact Detail:
Economicsnetwork Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Microbiology in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former members of the research group at the Sir William Dunn School. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into recent publications from the lab. Knowing their latest findings will help you engage in meaningful discussions and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the project.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Be ready to discuss your experience with microbial culturing and any relevant techniques. Highlight how your background aligns with the research goals, especially regarding C. albicans.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Oxford.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Microbiology in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in microbiology and any specific work with C. albicans or anaerobic bacteria. We want to see how your skills align with our research goals, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this research area and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Be enthusiastic and let your personality come through!
Showcase Teamwork and Independence: We value both collaboration and independence in our research group. In your application, mention experiences where you’ve successfully worked in a team as well as instances where you’ve taken the lead on projects. Balance is key!
Apply Online and Meet the Deadline: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website before the deadline! We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table, but make sure everything is in by noon on Friday 30 January 2026 to be considered.
How to prepare for a job interview at Economicsnetwork
✨Know Your Microbiology
Brush up on your knowledge of microbiology, especially regarding fungi and bacteria interactions. Be prepared to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the project goals, particularly around C. albicans and gut microbiome studies.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working with a diverse team, highlight your collaborative experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in interdisciplinary groups and supported less experienced members, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about specific methodologies related to microbial culturing and germ-free techniques. Be ready to explain your approach to experimental design and any challenges you've faced in the lab, along with how you overcame them.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research group's current projects and future directions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your career aspirations.
