Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Neuronal cell biologist in Parkinson’s

Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term until 30 September 2027

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 to join our Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration at the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated and skilled cellular neuroscientist with experience in neurodegenerative disease models, lysosomal and mitochondrial biology. Strong expertise in neuronal differentiation and cellular phenotyping is essential, along with a collaborative mindset and a passion for translational research. 

In this role, you will be responsible for differentiating iPSC-derived dopamine neurons and neuronal/glial co-cultures, performing analysis of Parkinson’s molecular and cellular biology and correlate read-outs of cell and molecular biology with detailed clinical phenotypes to contribute to our understanding of Parkinson’s disease. This post is available from January 2026 until 30 September 2027. 

Key responsibilities:

• Differentiate iPSC-derived dopamine neurons from Parkinson’s patients and control individuals; develop protocols for neuronal/glial co-cultures
• Perform analysis of Parkinson’s cellular phenotypes using high-content imaging, molecular and cell biology, gene expression and protein biochemistry; undertake assays of mitochondrial and lysosomal function
• Develop methods to correlate read-outs of cell and molecular biology with detailed clinical phenotype of patient subclusters 
• Contribute ideas for new research projects and develop ideas for generating research income
• Manage own academic research and administrative activities involving small scale project management
• Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques
• Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and present papers and posters
• Test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate

Selection criteria:

• Hold or be near to completion of PhD or DPhil degree in neuroscience or cell/molecular biology, 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
• Ability to manage own academic research and associated activities
• Previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations
• Ability to contribute ideas for new research projects and research income generation
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings
• Commitment to engaging with, and promoting awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion and embedding these into your work.

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.

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