"Postdoctoral Research Scientist"

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine (IDRM), IMS-Tetsuya Nakamura Building, Old Road Campus, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7TY

Full-time, fixed-term for 3 years. Please note the latest possible start date for this post is 24/04/2026.

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 talented Postdoctoral Research Scientist to develop tools and techniques that enable bioengineering of human lymphatic networks. You will work in the group of Dr Oliver Stone and in collaboration with the group of Prof Dame Molly Stevens. The ideal candidate should hold, or be near completion of, a PhD/DPhil in developmental or stem cell biology. You will be highly organized with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team and have good communication skills. In this role, you will refine and optimize methods for the directed differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into lymphatic endothelium and collaborate on the bioengineering of lymphatic networks using advanced microfabrication techniques. This post is available from 1st March 2026 for up to 36 months in the first instance. Informal inquiries can be sent to Dr Oliver Stone via email: oliver.stone@dpag.ox.ac.uk

Key responsibilities:

• Manage own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small scale project management, to co-ordinate multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines
• Adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols
• Record, analyse, and interpret experimental data with high accuracy, and integrate findings with outputs from other group members and collaborators.
• Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present data.
• Contribute to the training and supervision of junior researchers, students, and visiting scientists in relevant techniques.
• Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone.
• Carry out collaborative projects with external research groups.
• Embed the principles of mutual respect, equality, diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability in all aspects of your work; undertake training as and when asked to do so.

Selection criteria:

• Hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in stem cell or cell biology, together with relevant experience
• Extensive hands-on experience in culturing hPSCs and hPSC-derived cellular models.
• Experience with developing hPSC differentiation protocols.
• Experience in preparing and analysing samples using confocal microscopy and other bioimaging applications.
• Possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes.
• Ability to manage own academic research and associated activities whilst working respectfully within a diverse, multidisciplinary team of international scientists.
• Previous experience of contributing to publications/conference presentations.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings.
• 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

While this is a full-time role, we welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

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 15th January 2026. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 26th January 2026 and will be 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