Research Assistant - Lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson's disease

Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term until 30 June 2026

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 Research Assistant to join our team on a translational project investigating lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease. The ideal candidate will have experience with iPSC cultures, a background in cellular neuroscience or molecular cell biology, and a meticulous approach to lab work and data handling. You will help develop biomarkers, test therapeutic compounds, and contribute to assay development using iPSC-derived dopamine neurons from Parkinson’s patients. This post is available immediately until 30 June 2026.

Funded by the Michael J Fox Foundation and in collaboration with EndLyz (Dementia Discovery Fund portfolio), this project offers a unique opportunity to work across academic and pharmaceutical research.

Key responsibilities:

• Laboratory experiments and data interpretation
• Imaging analysis and assay read-outs
• iPSC-derived neuron and cell line studies
• Data preparation for publication
• Project planning and methodology development
• Academic–industry collaboration

Selection criteria:

• BSc/MSc in a relevant area of research (or near completion)
• iPSC culture experience
• Neurodegenerative disease model knowledge
• Problem-solving and innovation skills
• Attention to detail and record keeping
• Understanding of neuronal phenotypes

What we offer:

Your wellbeing at work matters, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle and electric car loan schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

While this is a full-time role, we welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

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 Friday 5^th September

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 8^th or 15^th September.

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

Follow us:

Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, Bluesky and Instagram to learn more about our work and culture. Informal enquiries about the role may be directed to the DPAG HR Team: hr@dpag.ox.ac.uk

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.

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