"Research Assistant in striatal neurobiology"

Research Assistant in striatal neurobiology

Department: Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Sherrington Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT

Contract & job type: Fixed-term, full-time until 31 August 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 Research Assistant to join the research group of Professor Stephanie Cragg on a discovery project in the field of striatal neurobiology. The ideal candidate will have a first University degree in a neuroscience-related subject and some relevant laboratory experience, and will demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for discovery science and a strong interest in developing as an experimental researcher within an active academic laboratory environment. In this role, you will be responsible for assisting with general laboratory organization, assisting with practical experimental work and regulated procedures under a Home Office Personal Licence, conducting immunocytochemistry and microscopy on brain tissue, and managing datasets and protocols. This post is available from 09 May 2026 until 31 August 2028.

Key responsibilities:

• General laboratory tasks such as stocking consumables, keeping inventories of reagents, organising servicing of equipment, and keeping laboratory space clean and organised.
• Obtain a UK Home Office Personal Licence (PIL A, B & C) to conduct or assist with intracranial surgery in animal models.
• Assist with obtaining research data, such as immunocytochemistry and microscopy in brain tissue, molecular or chemical analyses of brain tissue, real-time detection of neuromodulators in brain tissue.
• Contribute to the management for genotyping of transgenic animal model colonies, liaising with the biomedical services team and other colony managers in the team.

Selection criteria:

• Hold a first University degree in a neuroscience-related subject
• Relevant laboratory experience
• Sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes
• Ability to manage own research and administrative activities
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write text that can be published, present data at conferences, and represent the research group at meetings
• Experience of following and adapting protocols and selecting appropriate experimental methodologies
• Experience with working with animal models

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 Wednesday 08 April 2026. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 20 April 2026, and will be face to face or 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.

Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 6

Salary: £35,681 - £41,636

Contact Person: DPAG HR Team

Vacancy ID: 185482