Research Assistant

Location: Sherrington Building, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT
Contract: Fixed-term (4 years)

About the Role

DPAG is seeking a Research Assistant to join the Auditory Neuroscience Group led by Professor Andrew King FRS. The post is funded through a Wellcome Discovery Award and forms part of a collaborative programme involving Professors Rafal Bogacz, Colin Akerman, and Claudia Clopath. The project combines experimental and theoretical approaches to investigate the cellular basis of learning in the neocortex, with a focus on neuronal plasticity during auditory learning.

The successful candidate will support an in vivo research programme by collecting, analysing, and interpreting experimental data, while working closely with an interdisciplinary team of researchers.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage research and associated administrative activities independently within agreed guidelines.
• Contribute to project planning and the development of new research ideas.
• Select and adapt appropriate experimental and computational methods to test research hypotheses.
• Follow and modify research protocols as required.
• Collect, analyse, and present scientific data from multiple sources and use findings to refine theoretical models.
• Contribute to scientific publications, reports, and conference presentations.
• Support laboratory management, including stock control of consumables.
• Operate specialist equipment to measure behaviour and neuronal activity.
• Represent the research group at meetings, seminars, and collaborative events.
• Share findings and contribute to discussions with partner institutions and research groups.

Essential Criteria

Applicants should:

• Hold a first degree in a relevant discipline.
• Have sufficient specialist knowledge to contribute effectively to established research programmes.
• Be able to manage their own research and administrative workload.
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Have experience selecting and adapting relevant experimental methodologies.
• Have experience analysing experimental data and working with computational models.
• Be committed to creating collaborative and inclusive research environments.

About DPAG

DPAG conducts world-leading research spanning molecular, cellular, tissue, and systems-level physiology, bridging discovery science and translational medicine. The department is committed to research excellence, high-quality teaching, and fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace.

Benefits

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Hybrid working opportunities
• Contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• Childcare and family leave support
• Cycle and electric vehicle loan schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Social and sports club membership
• Discounted bus travel and season ticket loans

How to Apply

Submit a CV, supporting statement addressing the selection criteria, and details of two referees via the online application system.

Closing date: 12 noon, 14 August 2026
Interviews: Expected via Microsoft Teams during the weeks commencing 31 August or 7 September 2026.

DPAG welcomes applications from under-represented groups and is committed to equality, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability through initiatives such as LEAF and Green Impact.

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