The Sir William Dunn School of Pathology at the University of Oxford is looking for outstanding early career researchers seeking a stimulating and supportive environment in which to establish their research group as externally-funded fellows. We are specifically looking for researchers seeking mentoring and sponsorship to apply for career development fellowships (e.g. Wellcome Trust Career Development Award, MRC Career Development Award, CRUK Career Development Fellowship, etc). Researchers who succeed in securing a fellowship will then be invited to establish their independent group in the department, benefiting from a generous support package, comprehensive mentorship, career development training and opportunities to recruit Oxford undergraduate and postgraduate students, and with equivalent status to our tenured staff.
Successful candidates will have an outstanding track record in any area of biomedical research, with a particular focus on the fundamental cell and molecular biology underlying disease. The Department celebrates diversity and we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds that are currently underrepresented at the University of Oxford. This opportunity is open to candidates from within the UK and internationally.
The Dunn School is a dynamic and collaborative department, with 35 research groups and roughly 300 staff and students investigating the biology underlying disease, using a wide range of basic and translational approaches. Our interests span many disciplines including cell and molecular biology, microbiology, development, immunology and cancer biology. Our researchers have access to excellent scientific facilities and support services, and the stimulating environment of the South Parks Road science area in particular, and the wider University of Oxford in general.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to present a seminar and will have the opportunity to discuss their research interests and requirements with various members of the department.
How to apply:
To submit your expression of interest, please email the following to cdf@path.ox.ac.uk by the 30th of September 2025:
- CV, including your list of publications and the contact details of two references (full references will only be requested if shortlisted).
- Short research proposal (3 pages in total: 1 page on your previous research, 2 pages on your future plans).
- A brief covering letter, including why you would like to join the Dunn School.
If you would like to discuss this opportunity informally, please contact the Head of Scientific Strategy and Projects Dr Catarina Vicente (cdf@path.ox.ac.uk), or the Head of Department Professor Matthew Freeman (matthew.freeman@path.ox.ac.uk). Those already holding a principal investigator position will not normally be eligible for this scheme, but do contact us if you would like to discuss if you are eligible.
