Research Assistant in Striatal Neurobiology

Contract & job type: Fixed-term, full-time until 31 August 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 Research Assistant to join the research group of Professor Cragg on a project in striatal neurobiology. The successful candidate will bring relevant hands-on laboratory experience and demonstrate enthusiasm for experimental science. You will be motivated to develop as a researcher within a dynamic academic environment and contribute to investigations of striatal circuitry and neuromodulation.

You will support day-to-day laboratory organisation and assist with experimental procedures conducted under a UK Home Office Personal Licence. Duties include performing immunocytochemistry and microscopy on brain tissue, supporting molecular and chemical analyses, and maintaining datasets, protocols, and laboratory records. You will also contribute to neuromodulator detection and other data-generation activities.

Key responsibilities:

• Maintain laboratory stocks, inventories, equipment servicing schedules, and an organised working environment.
• Assist with immunocytochemistry, microscopy, molecular analyses, and neuromodulator detection.
• Contribute to genotyping and management of transgenic animal colonies.

Selection criteria:

• First degree in a neuroscience-related subject and relevant laboratory experience.
• Ability to work independently, follow protocols, communicate effectively, and present scientific data.

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 Wednesday 08 April 2026.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 20 April 2026, 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.

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.

Advert information