Research Assistant

Research Assistant

Department: 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

Contract & job type: Full-time, fixed-term until 31 July 2029

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 Kalisch-Smith Group at the Institute of Developmental & Regenerative Medicine (IDRM), within the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics. The ideal candidate will hold a BSc or MSc in a relevant field, supplemented by relevant experience working in a scientific laboratory, with proven and demonstrable skills in molecular biology, cell culture and histology. You will be highly motivated, enthusiastic and willing to learn new skills. You will have highly effective verbal and written communication skills with all level of staff and an ability to operate effectively in a demanding and collaborative research environment.

This post is available from 01 August 2026 for 3 years initially, with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.

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
• Use specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment
• Contribute to discussions and share research findings with colleagues in partner institutions, and research groups

Selection criteria:

• Hold a BSc in a relevant field (e.g. biological sciences, molecular biology)
• Experience in working in a scientific laboratory, including experience with mouse mutant models, cell culture, imaging and use of microscopes, image analysis
• Experience of following and adapting protocols and selecting appropriate experimental methodologies. The ability to troubleshoot and the insight to know when to ask for assistance.
• Ability to manage own research/administrative activities and learn new skills
• Commitment to high quality research and ability to keep accurate records of data.
• Ability to work collaboratively and as part of a team but be able to function independently and take initiative when appropriate
• 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:

• 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 Monday 20 April. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 27 April, 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.

Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 6

Salary: £35,681 - £41,636

Vacancy ID: 185325