Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Engineering Biology
Salary
£39,424 - £47,779 per annum
Closing date
Jun 26, 2026 12:00PM
Description
We are seeking a full-time postdoctoral to join the Prof Cathy Ye and Prof Wei Huang research group at the Department of Engineering Science (Headington/Begbroke, Oxford). The post is funded by BBSRC and is fixed-term to 31 March 2027.Brief to develop simple cell (SimCell, non-dividing bacteria cell) based biocatalyst to transform waste from cultured meat process into essential amnio acids and growth factors to achieve a sustainable production. You will be responsible for 1) single-cell characterisation and collect Raman phenotypic profile of both SimCells and cultured meat using single-cell Raman spectroscopy. 2) use bioluminescence (luxCDABE gene cluster) and half-life time GFP expression, GC/HPLC-MS, flow cytometry to monitor in situ SimCell ATP level, metabolic flux, and product profiles. 3) acquire both genotypic data (DNA sequencing) and phenotypic data (protein production and Raman single cell profiling analysis) to enable iterative refinement of AI-predicted designs based on observed biochemical phenotypes).
You should possess a PhD/D.Phil. (or be near completion) in microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology or closely related area together with relevant experience and have strong knowledge and expertise in research and laboratory techniques relevant to synthetic biology/microbiology/ molecular cell biology. You will demonstrate a strong ability to work on interdisciplinary and collaborative research challenges and have the ability to manage own academic research and associated activities. Previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations and the ability to contribute ideas for new research projects and research income generation is also required.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Cathy Ye (hua.ye@eng.ox.ac.uk) and Professor Wei Huang (email: wei.huang@eng.ox.ac.uk)
For more information about working at the Department, see www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/
Only online applications received before midday on Friday 26 June 2026 can be considered. You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, including a brief statement of research interests (describing how past experience and future plans fit with the advertised position), CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.
The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology.
Contact name
Prof. Cathy Ye
Contact email
hua.ye@eng.ox.ac.uk
The job description is available via the Apply Now button