Post-doctoral Research Assistant: Neurobiology of Calcium Channels in Bipolar Disorder

Location: Warneford Hospital, Oxford

We are looking to appoint a postdoctoral researcher to join a group led by Professor Paul Harrison, investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which voltage-gated calcium channels in the brain contribute to bipolar disorder. The work is based in the University Department of Psychiatry at the Warneford Hospital, and will also involve work in other University departments. There may also be the opportunity to spend time working at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development in Baltimore.

The post is full-time; however, consideration would be given to candidates wishing to work part time (minimum 50% FTE), on a pro rata basis, with a commensurate reduction in duties.

The post is for a fixed term (funded to 30^th November 2027).

Additionally, the University has introduced a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,500 a year (pro rata) for all staff on grades 1–10 of the main salary and grading structure which will be implemented in the September 2024 payroll.

You will design and conduct molecular neurobiological experiments including techniques such as Nanopore long-read RNA sequencing, PCR, BaseScope, immunocytochemistry, biochemical assays, and cell culture and transfection. You will work collaboratively on experiments with other members of the group and will contribute to the curation and analysis of data.

You will have or be close to the completion of a PhD in molecular or cellular biology or another relevant scientific area, along with experience working with RNA from cells and/or tissues, including the adaptation and optimisation of established protocols. With excellent language and communication skills, you should have the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. Experience of working on the neurobiology of psychiatric or neurological disorders would be desirable as would experience with cell culture and pharmacological and biochemical methods.

You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement and a CV as part of your application

The closing date for this post is 12:00 midday on 13^th September 2024.

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