Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

to join Dr Azim Ansari's research group in the Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, based at the Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, Oxford. This Wellcome Trust-funded position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of genomics, virology, and data science, focusing on how host and viral genetic variation influences infectious disease outcomes.

About You

The successful candidate will play a leading role in the analysis of large-scale genomic datasets, including viral next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, genome-to-genome studies, and genome-wide association studies. They will develop and apply computational pipelines and novel statistical approaches to investigate viral evolution, host-pathogen interactions, and the links between viral genetic diversity, clinical progression, and treatment response. The postholder will also contribute to publications, present findings at international meetings, and engage with collaborators across clinical and academic settings.

Applicants should hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in statistical genetics, bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related quantitative field, with strong programming skills (e.g. R, Python) and proven experience in analysing large-scale sequencing data. Expertise in phylogenetic analysis, infectious disease genetics, and a strong record of scientific output are essential.

Applications from candidates who have not yet completed their PhD will be considered.

About the Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine

The Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine (NDM) is one of the largest departments of the University of Oxford and is part of the Medical Sciences Division, with responsibility for a significant part of the teaching of clinical students within the Medical School.

Benefits of working

University employees enjoy 38 days' paid holiday, generous pension schemes, travel discounts, and a variety of professional development opportunities. Our range of other employee benefits and discounts also includes free entry to the Botanic Gardens and University colleges, and discounts at University museums. See https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits

Application Process

This position is Full time fixed term until 31/12/2026

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application.

Only applications received before 12:00 midday on Tuesday 23/09/2025 will be considered.