Research Assistant in Microbial Genomics

Research Assistant in Microbial Genomics

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our gonococcal genomics research team within the Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford. This is an exciting opportunity for an early career researcher with a background in bioinformatics, microbiology, genomics, biology, computer science or a related field to contribute to research investigating Neisseria gonorrhoeae, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), vaccine antigen diversity and pathogen evolution. The appointee will work closely with members of a multidisciplinary research team, using a collection of more than 60,000 gonococcal genomes to support large-scale genomic analyses with direct relevance to AMR surveillance and vaccine development.

The main responsibilities will include managing and analysing whole-genome sequence data, developing and applying bioinformatics workflows to annotate antimicrobial resistance determinants and vaccine antigen genes, and conducting analyses of genomic diversity, population structure and evolutionary patterns. The postholder will curate and quality control genomic datasets and associated metadata, interpret analytical results, and prepare summaries, figures and reports for research meetings and publications. Additional duties will include contributing to manuscripts, conference presentations and other dissemination activities, working with researchers across the group and external collaborators, and supporting wider academic activities within the Department, including teaching, student mentoring and supervision where appropriate.

You will hold a degree in bioinformatics, microbiology, genomics, biology, computer science or a closely related discipline, and have experience analysing biological or genomic datasets using computational methods. You will have familiarity with Linux/Unix command-line environments and scripting languages such as Python, R or Bash, together with knowledge of microbial genomics and/or bacterial whole-genome sequencing and experience using bioinformatics software and data analysis workflows. You will also have excellent organisational and communication skills, the ability to manage your own research and administrative activities, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary research team. Experience with bacterial population or comparative genomics, antimicrobial resistance prediction or bacterial genome annotation tools, large-scale genomic datasets or high-performance computing environments would be advantageous.

In return we offer an excellent benefits package including: 38 days annual leave (pro rata for part time), hybrid working, an excellent contributory pension scheme, childcare services, family leave schemes, cycle and electric car loan schemes, Employee Assistance Programme, membership to social and sports clubs, discounted bus travel and travel loans, weekly coffee and cake mornings, and social events throughout the year.

This role is based in Oxford, and offered on a full-time basis. It is a fixed-term post for 12 months. The closing date for applications is noon on 12 October 2026. You will be required to upload a CV and a cover letter as part of your online application. The cover letter should clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description.