Job Description

Contract & job type: Full-time, Fixed-term until 30 June 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 Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist to join our team working on a translational research project investigating lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) cultures, a strong background in cellular neuroscience or molecular cell biology, and a meticulous approach to experimental work and data handling. In this role, you will be responsible for developing novel biomarkers, testing therapeutic compounds, and contributing to assay development using iPSC-derived dopamine neurons from Parkinson's patients. This post is available immediately until 30 June 2026.

This project is funded by the Michael J Fox Foundation and conducted in collaboration with EndLyz, a new company within the Dementia Discovery Fund (DDF) portfolio--offering a unique opportunity to work at the interface of academic research and pharmaceutical discovery.

Key responsibilities:

Undertake laboratory experiments and interpret data

Conduct imaging analysis and study assay read-outs of endolysosomal dysfunction

Generate and study iPSC-derived neurons and cell lines

Prepare data for publication and presentation

Contribute to wider project planning and methodology development

Collaborate across academic and industry teams to advance biomarker discovery

Selection criteria:

BSc/MSc in a relevant area of research (or near completion)

Practical experience with iPSC cultures

Knowledge of cellular models of neurodegenerative disease

Ability to innovate and troubleshoot technical problems

High attention to detail in experimental work and record keeping

Strong understanding of neuronal phenotypes and molecular cell 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


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 Friday 5th September
Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 8th or 15th September.
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

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.

DPAG and Sustainability

We have signed up to The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) and Green Impact, actively implementing and encouraging eco-friendly practices that reduce waste, promote energy efficiency, and promote bio-diversity. See the job description for more detail.