"Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Neuronal cell biologist in restoring lysosomal function in Parkinson’s disease"

Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Neuronal cell biologist in restoring lysosomal function in Parkinson’s disease

Department: Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU

Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term until 31 March 2028

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. We are committed not only to innovative research and the highest standard of teaching, but also to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment.

Overview of the role: We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join our Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration with the Wade-Martins group within the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics at the University of Oxford. The ideal candidate will be a motivated and skilled cell biologist with experience in stem cell culture, neuronal differentiation, and phenotypic assays. A strong background in neurobiology, cell imaging, and molecular techniques, along with excellent organizational and collaborative skills, is essential.

In this role, you will undertake a collaborative research project between the University of Oxford and Neumora (https://neumoratx.com), funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation. You will perform neuronal differentiation and phenotypic analysis in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived dopamine neurons to evaluate novel therapeutics targeting lysosomal function in Parkinson’s disease. You will work within the state-of-the-art Neuronal Phenotyping and Stem Cell Facility and contribute to translational research at the interface of academic science and pharmaceutical drug discovery. This post is available until 31 March 2028.

Key responsibilities:

• Perform cellular, molecular and metabolomic assay techniques in iPSC-derived neurons from patients to test novel modulators of lysosome function
• Understand the mechanism of action of novel modulators of lysosome function across cell and organelle biology in iPSC-derived neuronal models of Parkinson’s
• Undertake neuronal differentiation of iPSC lines from Parkinson’s patients and controls into dopamine neurons
• Contribute ideas for new research projects and develop ideas for generating research income
• Manage own academic research and administrative activities involving small scale project management
• Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques
• Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and present papers and posters
• Test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate

Selection criteria:

• Hold or be near to completion of PhD or DPhil degree in neuroscience or cell/molecular biology, or equivalent.
• Expertise in neuronal/glial cell culture, preferably in human pluripotent stem cells
• Expertise in setting up cellular assays, including image-based experiments
• Have knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s
• Be highly motivated, with the capacity to think creatively and work across teams
• Show commitment to engaging with, and promoting awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion and embedding these into your work.

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

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle and electric car loan schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

How to apply: Please provide a supporting statement outlining how you meet the selection criteria along with your CV, and the details of two referees as part of your online application. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 30th January. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 9th February, and will be either face to face or held on Microsoft Teams. Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.

Follow us: Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, Bluesky and Instagram to learn more about our work and culture. Informal enquiries about the role may be directed to the DPAG HR Team: hr@dpag.ox.ac.uk