Research Assistant

Contract & job type: Full-time, fixed-term until 31/01/2030

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.

Overview of the role:

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join the Derrick group at the Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine. The position will support the group’s research into the genetic origins of Bicuspid Aortic Valve, the most common congenital heart disease. The ideal candidate will hold a degree in a relevant biological subject, experience working with zebrafish and good lab skills. In this role, you will be responsible for general laboratory management, maintain animal colonies and running a research project. This post is fixed term until 31/01/2030.

Key responsibilities:

• Manage own research and administrative activities, within guidelines provided by senior colleagues
• Contribute to wider project planning, including ideas for new research projects
• Determine the most appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses, and identify suitable alternatives if technical problems arise
• Select, follow, and adapt experimental protocols
• Gather, analyse, and present scientific data from a variety of sources
• Contribute to scientific reports and journal articles and the presentation of data/papers at conferences
• Responsible for general laboratory management and administration, including stock control of laboratory consumables
• Working with the Principal Investigator, maintain efficient running of animal colonies
• Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone

Selection criteria:

• Hold a degree in a relevant biological subject, together with experience of working in a lab environment
• Possess a basic understanding and experience of molecular biology techniques e.g. PCR, CRISPR, cloning
• Ability to troubleshoot within own capabilities and communicate difficulties
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write text that can be published, present data at conferences, and represent the research group at meetings

What we offer:

Your wellbeing at work matters, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle and electric car loan schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 21^st September 2026, and will be held on Microsoft Teams in the first instance.

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

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.

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