Research Assistant (Neuronal Cell Biologist)

Location: Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, Sherrington Road, Oxford OX1 3QU

Contract: Full-time, fixed-term for 17 months from 1 September 2026

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Assistant (Neuronal Cell Biologist) to join the Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration at DPAG. This exciting opportunity focuses on investigating Parkinson's disease using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neuronal models.

You will maintain and differentiate human neuronal cell cultures and apply cellular and molecular imaging techniques to study dopamine dynamics and disease-related phenotypes. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to a collaborative research programme exploring the biological mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and differentiate iPSC and related cell lines into dopaminergic neurons.
• Apply imaging and cellular assays to investigate dopamine dynamics and Parkinson's disease phenotypes.
• Assess the effects of small molecules in cellular models of Parkinson's disease.
• Design and adapt experimental approaches, troubleshoot technical challenges, and select appropriate methodologies.
• Collect, analyse, and present scientific data.
• Contribute to scientific reports, publications, conference presentations, and future research planning.
• Manage research and administrative activities within agreed guidelines.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the research team.

About You

You will hold, or be close to completing, a BSc or MSc in neuroscience, cell/molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline. Candidates should have:

• Experience in neuronal cell culture, ideally including human pluripotent stem cells.
• Experience with cellular and image-based assays.
• Knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease.
• Strong IT skills, including data analysis and scientific software packages.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

What We Offer

The University of Oxford provides an excellent range of benefits, including:

• A generous contributory pension scheme.
• 38 days annual leave.
• Family-friendly policies and childcare services.
• Cycle-to-work and electric car loan schemes.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Access to social and sports clubs.
• Discounted travel schemes and season ticket loans.

How to Apply

Please click on the ‘Apply’ button above and submit:

• A CV.
• A supporting statement explaining how you meet the selection criteria.
• Details of two referees.

Closing date: 12 noon, 18 August 2026

Interviews: Expected week commencing 24 August 2026 (in person)

Applications are particularly welcomed from women and Black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts at Oxford.

For informal enquiries, please contact the DPAG HR Team at hr@dpag.ox.ac.uk.

DPAG is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and sustainable working environment. Follow us on LinkedIn, Bluesky and Instagram to learn more about our research and community.

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