Job Description

Contract & job type: Fixed-term, Full-time until 30 September 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:

The Boyman Group is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist to take central role in pioneering research on the role of mitochondria in the development of heart disease. This position is funded by the British Heart Foundation and offers an exciting opportunity to explore new strategies to augment mitochondrial energy supply in the failing heart.
You will play a central role in advancing our understanding of mitochondrial energy regulation in the failing heart. Building on recent publications from our group--such as novel subcellular Ca2+ and cAMP signalling pathways that control mitochondrial energy production.
Our team has developed state-of-the-art tools for high spatiotemporal imaging of electrically active cardiomyocytes and their mitochondria, high-throughput metabolic assays, and unique molecular biology applications, providing a solid foundation for this research.
This position provides a unique platform to develop expertise within a vibrant, collaborative environment at the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics (DPAG), Oxford University. You will work alongside leading experts in mitochondrial metabolism, and engaging with postdoctoral scientists, PhD candidates, and research staff. In this environment, you will gain experience across multiple scales of cardiac research, from in vivo phenotyping of genetically modified animal models to molecular and super-resolution imaging techniques at the cellular and subcellular levels.
The ideal candidate is passionate about tackling complex scientific questions, with a strong background in protein biochemistry. You should have a demonstratable keen interest in mitochondrial biology and cardiac cell research, combined with a drive to learn cutting-edge imaging methodologies and high-throughput metabolic assays. Experience with laboratory animal handling is essential.
The position is available from October 2025, with funding secured for four years. It offers an excellent opportunity for career development for highly committed researchers, mentorship, and active participation in an innovative research community.

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 Test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate Contribute ideas for new research projects Develop ideas for generating research income, and present detailed research proposals to senior researchers Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters. Use specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques. Working with lab animals, tissues, and cells. Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone. Carry out collaborative projects with colleagues in partner institutions, and research groups.

Selection criteria:

Essential:

Hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant field (e.g., Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Biophysics, Cardiology, or related areas), together with relevant experience Possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes Ability to manage own academic research and associated activities Previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations Ability to contribute ideas for new research projects and research income generation Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. Working with lab animals, tissues, and cells

Desirable:

Experience of independently managing a discrete area of a research project Experience of actively collaborating in the development of research articles for publication Demonstrated experience in designing and executing experiments, with a strong background in cell or molecular biology techniques Experience or demonstrated interest in mitochondrial research, heart disease, or related biomedical fields is desirable but not essential Proficiency in core laboratory techniques relevant to molecular and cellular biology

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 13 June.
Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 30 June, 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, X 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

DPAG's Statement of Inclusion:

We, as a Department and Community, will be considerate and welcoming of all people, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and socio-economic background. We acknowledge societal inequalities and how these impact us, and those around us, personally and professionally. Our policies, practices and Respectful Behaviours Framework underpin this commitment.