Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Bottom-up experimental investigation of pathways to hydroxyapatite remineralisation

University of Oxford

Engineering Science

Location: Oxford

Salary: 39,424 to 47,779 per annum: Grade 7

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 22nd September 2026

Closes: 16th October 2026

Job Ref: 188887

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the Multifunctional Materials & Composites (MMC) Laboratory at the Department of Engineering Science. The post is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and is fixed term to 30 November 2027.

The research project will employ cutting-edge experimental methodologies to elucidate the pathways for human tooth enamel mineralization by 4D microscopy and microfluidics. We are looking for a motivated and imaginative materials chemist to drive the effort towards developing breakthrough remineralizing solutions. Further project details are found in the accompanying Job Description.

You should hold a doctorate (PhD/DPhil) or be near completion in a relevant materials chemistry/science/engineering discipline, together with some post-doctoral experience. You should possess a strong background in biomineralization and/or crystallization chemistry, microfluidics, solution synthesis, and spectroscopic techniques (e.g. Raman and infrared), and must be prepared to get involved in complex experimental campaigns (e.g. at synchrotron).

Informal enquiries may be addressed to:

Prof. JC Tan (email: jin-chong.tan@eng.ox.ac.uk)

Further information can be found at http://www.eng.ox.ac.uk/jobs/home

Only online applications received before midday on

16 October 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.

Keywords: Dental decay, Hydroxyapatite, Biomineralization, Multi-modal microscopy, Microfluidics