Postdoctoral Researcher in Interrogation of Innate Inflammatory Pathways in iPS Cell Models of Parkinson’s

Location: South Parks Road, Oxford

We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and self-motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Cowley Lab at the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford. The project is funded by the Michael J Fox Foundation and will investigate innate inflammatory pathways in Parkinson’s. It is a collaborative research programme between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge ALBORADA Drug Discovery Institute.

This exciting opportunity will enable the post-doctoral scientist to apply advanced human iPSC-derived cellular models to investigate how innate immune signalling pathways are activated in Parkinson’s and contribute to neuronal dysfunction. The project will involve differentiating human iPS cells to microglia, astrocytes and dopaminergic neurons, establishing co-cultures of these cell types, and examining innate immune pathway responses and neuronal health following perturbation. It will utilise novel compounds for pathway manipulation, employing high content imaging (Opera Phenix) along with sophisticated image analysis pipelines for assessing pathway engagement and parameters of neuronal health.

The scientist will benefit from the Cowley Lab’s extensive experience in modelling neuroinflammation using iPSC models, and the expertise of Prof. John Skidmore and Prof. Wei-Li Kuan at the ADDI in cellular assays and drug discovery. The project will generate mechanistic insight into the relationship between neuronal health and immune activation, and will advance progress towards therapeutic strategies that mitigate neuroinflammation.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in neuroscience, cell/molecular biology, or equivalent experience / qualification, with strong experience in cell culture (preferably iPS cells), and in setting up cellular assays (preferably including image-based experiments). The candidate will be highly motivated, organised, with the capacity to think creatively.

The post available as a fixed-term contract for 2 years. You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, including a brief statement of research interests and experience, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 1st September 2026 at midday. Interviews will be held shortly thereafter.

At the Dunn School we are committed to supporting the professional and career development of our postdocs and research staff. To help them thrive and achieve their ambitions, we have created a comprehensive range of opportunities and initiatives designed to provide an exceptional launchpad for their future careers.  

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