Postdoctoral Research Scientist

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist with a strong background in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) differentiations and mitochondrial biology to join Dr Ruxandra Dafinca’s group within the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences.

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a research project investigating the synaptic role of mitochondria in neurons from ALS/FTD patients. They will work under Dr Ruxandra Dafinca’s supervision (https://www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/ruxandra-dafinca) in a stimulating environment as part of the Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre and will be based in the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery.

Using patient iPSC-neurons, our group aims to determine regulatory pathways affected by neurodegenerative disorders. A multitude of studies highlight dysfunctional mitochondria as key players in motor neuron degeneration. Presynaptic mitochondria are involved in many cellular processes that are relevant for neuronal function and support synaptic transmission by regulating the necessary balance between Ca2+ homeostasis and ATP provision, which can break down in ALS/FTD. In this project, we aim to identify the direct link between dysfunctional mitochondria and synaptic dysregulation in ALS/FTD neurons.

Laboratory work will involve differentiations of human iPSCs to motor neurons, analysis of mitochondrial bioenergetics, preparing samples for mass-spectrometry, lentiviral transductions and optogenetics. It is also expected that the successful candidate will contribute to the computational analysis of multi-omic data that will be generated during the project. The candidate must have completed (or be near completion) a PhD/DPhil in Neuroscience/Biochemistry or relevant discipline and have excellent previous laboratory experience. The post-holder will be expected to contribute to the training and mentoring of postgraduate students and junior members of the group.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of novel strategies for neuronal analysis in health and disease and optimizing new methods. The project is funded by the Motor Neuron Disease Association for 3 years.

For any enquiries regarding the project, please contact Dr Ruxandra Dafinca (ruxandra.dafinca@ndcn.ox.ac.uk).

Please see the below 'Job Description' for further details on the responsibilities and selection criteria, as well as further information about the university and how to apply.