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- Tasks: Assist in planning and conducting experiments on DNA assembly in a cutting-edge lab.
- Company: Join a well-funded research group at Oxford University focused on synthetic genomes.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment with potential for further funding and career growth.
- Other info: Full-time position until May 2028; apply by 4 August 2025.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting project with real-world applications in biotechnology and agriculture.
- Qualifications: Degree in molecular biology or related field; relevant lab experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant in Molecular Biology who will be a member of a research group and will support and carry out research on DNA assembly of synthetic genomes.
This is an exciting opportunity with huge potential. Your primary role will be to assist in planning and carrying out experiments and analysing the results within Professor Chris O’Callaghan’s laboratory (https://www.chg.ox.ac.uk/research/research-groups/ocallaghan-group-1) with Dr Nathali Flores-Fernandez. This will involve molecular biology and biochemistry to undertake DNA assembly including generating constructs and testing new approaches. There may also be some expression and purification of recombinant enzymes such as methylases. There may be scope for some bioinformatic/computational analysis, but this is primarily a laboratory-based post. The laboratory is well-equipped for this work and for testing the function of assembled DNA molecules. The project will enjoy a high level of funding and if successful there is potential for a further 3-year phase of funding to be awarded. The project collaborators include Professor Francesco Licausi and Professor Steve Kelly. This is an exciting training position offering a well-supported position in a well-funded laboratory to work on an important new project as part of a wider collaborative team.
This role has arisen from the award of a major new grant of around £6.7 million from the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) – a UK government funding agency. This grant is shared between three groups and covers a 3-year period. This is translational funding to further develop technology that we have invented to assemble large DNA molecules of any sequence with ease. Using this technology, it is possible to rapidly and simply assemble DNA molecules up to hundreds of thousands of base-pairs in length. We have progressively improved and simplified this technology which uses recombinant DNA methylases as published in PubMed link and PubMed link. The current project will refine the technology and streamline it for widespread use. Our initial aim is to use this technology to generate synthetic organelle genomes, but it has many other potential applications. With our collaborators we aim to generate synthetic chloroplast genomes and test these in relevant crop plants including potato (Solanum tuberosum) and wheat (Triticum aestivum).
With a degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biological chemistry, synthetic biology or related subject, you will be responsible for managing your own academic research and administrative activities within guidelines provided by senior colleagues, contributing to the wider project planning, including ideas for new projects. You will have good organisational and laboratory skills and be good at record keeping with good written and verbal communication skills.
It is essential that you currently have relevant experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biological chemistry, synthetic biology (or related subject) and possess sufficient specialist knowledge and experience in the discipline to work within the proposed research programme. You will also have experience in laboratory work, following and adapting protocols, and selecting appropriate experimental methodologies with good laboratory skills, planning and organisation for the development of experimental work.
Applications for this vacancy should be made online and you will need to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. Please restrict your documentation to your CV and supporting statement only. Any other documents will be requested at a later date.
This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 28 May 2028 and is funded by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA).
Only applications received before 12 midday on 4 August 2025 will be considered. Please quote 180419 on all correspondence.
Informal enquiries should be addressed to Prof Chris O’Callaghan (chris.ocallaghan@ndm.o.x.ac.uk).
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Research Assistant in Molecular Biology employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Molecular Biology
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the research being conducted in Professor O’Callaghan’s lab. Understanding their current projects and methodologies will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of the research group or related fields. They can provide insights into the lab culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your application and potential interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on recent advancements in molecular biology and synthetic genome assembly. Being knowledgeable about the latest techniques and breakthroughs will not only enhance your understanding but also allow you to discuss relevant topics confidently during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that align with the job requirements. Highlighting your hands-on laboratory skills and any relevant projects will help you stand out as a candidate who is ready to contribute effectively from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Molecular Biology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills for the Research Assistant position in Molecular Biology, especially the focus on DNA assembly and laboratory work.
Craft a Tailored Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement should directly address how you meet each of the selection criteria outlined in the job description. Use specific examples from your experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related fields to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and supporting statement, emphasise any relevant laboratory experience, particularly in molecular biology techniques, protocol adaptation, and experimental methodology. Mention any specific projects or research that align with the role's requirements.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and supporting statement for any errors or unclear language. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a research environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the specific research projects being conducted in Professor O’Callaghan’s lab. Understanding the current work on DNA assembly and synthetic genomes will allow you to engage meaningfully during the interview.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous laboratory work, particularly any experience with molecular biology and biochemistry. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in following protocols and adapting methodologies.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the research group and the project. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the role aligns with your career goals.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Since good written and verbal communication is essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to explain complex concepts in a straightforward manner, as you may need to collaborate with team members from various backgrounds.