Research Assistant

Location: John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU

About the role

As the Postdoctoral Researcher within the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, you will explore the molecular mechanisms of atrial fibrillation and cardiac fibrosis in humans and, minimally, in animal models. Working closely with Professor Svetlana Reilly and members of the research group, you will be involved with studies of the role of calcitonin and calcitonin receptor signalling and microRNAs in myocardial remodelling in atrial fibrillation. The post-holder will also investigate blood markers in patients with atrial fibrillation. 

The post is predominantly laboratory-based and ideally suited to a science graduate with a few years of proven hands-on experience in a number of biochemistry, and RNA/DNA, cellular and molecular biology techniques. Such techniques include, but are not limited to, Western blot, qRT-PCR, PCR, primer design, ELISA, cloning, collagen assessment, histology, confocal microscopy, isolation and cell culture of primary human cells (fibroblasts and myocytes) and cell lines. 

As the majority of work will be undertaken using clinical samples, the post-holder will be expected to recruit patients, collect clinical samples, and process cardiac tissue/cardiac cells and blood samples. 

About you 

You will hold a degree in a relevant subject (such as Developmental, Molecular, and Cell Biology or Natural Sciences), in addition to experience in molecular biology techniques, cell (co)culture and transfection, and immunoblotting.

You will bring troubleshooting skills, a positive attitude, and flexibility, alongside independence in undertaking experimental work and data analysis. Experience in patient recruitment, consenting, and collecting blood samples will be an advantage.

Applications for this vacancy must be submitted online. You will be required to upload a CV and a supporting statement outlining how you meet the selection criteria for the role. 

Please note that only applications received before 12:00 midday on 5th January 2026 can be considered. Interviews are scheduled to take place on the week beginning 12th January 2026.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity 

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

The University of Oxford offers an attractive range of competitive benefits available to all staff for both work and personal life - https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits.

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