Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Neuronal Cell Biologist in Restoring Lysosomal Function in Parkinson’s Disease

Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term until 31 March 2028

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 the Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration in DPAG. The ideal candidate will be a motivated and skilled cell biologist with expertise in stem cell culture, neuronal differentiation, and phenotypic assays. Experience in neurobiology, cell imaging, and molecular techniques are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively.

You will undertake a collaborative project between Oxford and Neumora (https://neumoratx.com), funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation, to test novel therapeutics targeting lysosomal function in Parkinson’s disease. The role will use phenotypic analysis of iPSC-derived dopamine neurons to understand mechanisms of action, contributing to translational research at the interface of academia and drug discovery. This post is available until 31 March 2028

Key responsibilities:

• Differentiating iPSC lines into dopamine neurons
• Performing optimized cellular, molecular, and metabolomic assays
• Analysing and presenting data
• Contributing to reports and publications
• Collaborating across teams 

Selection criteria:

• PhD/DPhil in neuroscience or cell/molecular biology
• Expertise in stem cell culture, neuronal differentiation and cellular assays
• Knowledge of neurodegenerative disease
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion

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

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 30^th January.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 9^th February and will be either face to face or held on Microsoft Teams.

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. See the job description for more detail.

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