Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Neuronal Cell Biology

Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term for 2 years or 31 October 2027 (whichever is soonest)

About us:

At the  Department of Physiology Anatomy & Genetics (DPAG) we undertake discovery science where we reassemble physiological processes at the molecular, cellular, tissue and systems level of organisation. In so doing we provide a bridge to translational medicine, and interface between physical and life sciences. We are committed not only to innovative research and the highest standard of teaching, but also to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment.

Overview of the role:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Neuronal Cell Biology) to join the Wade-Martins Laboratory at the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Discovery within DPAG. The ideal candidate will be a neuronal cell biologist with experience working in neuronal models of neurodegeneration, ideally in human stem cell-derived models, and a good knowledge of Parkinson’s disease. In this role, you will differentiate iPSC-dopamine neurons from Parkinson’s patients and controls to target the pathological protein alpha-synuclein. You will treat neurons with peptides targeting alpha-synuclein and use cellular assays to test for alleviation of protein pathology and disease phenotypes. This post is available immediately for 2 years or 31 October 2027 (whichever is soonest).

Key responsibilities:

• Differentiate iPSC-dopamine neurons from Parkinson’s patients and controls and apply cellular and molecular techniques to target the pathological protein alpha-synuclein
• Undertake analysis of the phenotypic effect of treating neurons with peptides targeting alpha-synuclein on cell biology phenotypes in cellular models of Parkinson’s
• Manage own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small scale project management, to co-ordinate multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines
• Contribute ideas for new research projects
• Develop ideas for generating research income, and present detailed research proposals to senior researchers
• Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters

Selection criteria:

• Hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in molecular and cellular neuroscience, or equivalent
• Knowledge of the cell and molecular biology mechanisms of Parkinson’s disease, or related neurodegenerative condition
• Experience in neuronal cell culture, preferably in human pluripotent stem cells
• Experience in setting up cellular assays, and techniques in cell and molecular neuroscience

How to apply:

Please provide a supporting statement outlining how you meet the selection criteria along with your CV, and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 30 June 2025.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 07 July 2025, and will be face to face or on Microsoft Teams.

Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.

DPAG’s Statement of Inclusion:

We, as a Department and Community, will be considerate and welcoming of all people, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and socio-economic background. We acknowledge societal inequalities and how these impact us, and those around us, personally and professionally. Our policies, practices and  Respectful Behaviours Framework underpin this commitment.

DPAG and Sustainability

We have signed up to The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) and Green Impact, actively implementing and encouraging eco-friendly practices that reduce waste, promote energy efficiency, and promote bio-diversity. See the job description for more detail.

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