Postdoctoral Researcher in Lipid Metabolism in Alzheimer’s Disease

Location: Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, Sherrington Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU
Contract: Fixed-term until 30/06/2028

About DPAG

DPAG is one of the largest basic science departments in the University of Oxford, undertaking world-leading research across molecular, cellular, tissue & systems physiology. We are committed to research excellence, outstanding teaching, and creating an inclusive and supportive working environment.

About the role

This is an exceptional opportunity for an enthusiastic postdoctoral scientist to contribute to a highly innovative research programme funded by the BrighFocus Foundation to investigate organellar lipid metabolic defects in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). You will be responsible for the development of a novel sub cellular lipidomic platform to identify lipid metabolic alterations in AD iPSC-models working together with the Fernandes Group (University of Oxford), the Nixon-Abell Group (University of Cambridge) and the Koulman Group (University of Cambridge) extension.

Key responsibilities:

• Culture & manipulate human iPSC & undertake their differentiation into neurons & glial cells
• Design, validate, troubleshoot, & perform relevant assays to interrogate lipid dysregulation induced in iPSC models.
• Adapt existing & develop new scientific techniques/experimental protocols
• Test hypotheses/analyse scientific data from a variety of sources
• Contribute ideas for new research projects
• Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports/journal articles/present papers/posters
• Act as a source of information and advice to members of the group
• Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone
• Carry out collaborative projects with colleagues

Selection criteria:

Essential:

• Hold a PhD/DPhil (or close to completion) in biochemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience or a related field.
• Experience with human iPSC culture models, preferably neurons and glia.
• Prior work experience with lipid biology
• Knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s Disease.
• Experience in molecular biology and cloning methodologies, following and adapting protocols and setting up cellular assays
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present results, and represent the research group at meetings.
• Be highly motivated, organised, keep meticulous records and have the capacity to think creatively.
• Ability to manage own research & administrative activities.
• Commitment to engage with & promote awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion.

Desirable:

• Experience with mass-spec lipidomic analysis
• Experience with iPSC-disease models of neurodegenerative diseases
• Experience of working productively in a multi-disciplinary team.

What we offer

We provide a range of benefits, including:

• Generous contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• Childcare and family leave support
• Cycle/electric car loan schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Sports/social club membership
• Discounted travel schemes

Flexible/part-time working requests will be considered. 

How to apply:

Please submit a CV, supporting statement addressing the selection criteria, and details of two referees via the University of Oxford jobs page.  

Closing date: 12 noon on Monday 24th August.
Interviews: Week commencing 24th of August and will be held in hybrid format.

Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.

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