Job Description

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Research Assistant to provide skilled support for lab members working on a Wellcome Trust-funded project to investigate brain mechanisms of flexible behaviour.

Reporting to Dr Thomas Akam, the post-holder will carry out research supporting the laboratory's interests. The role will involve a range of activities including general lab management and administration, provide skilled technical support for lab members, and carry out data collection, processing and analysis from mice performing spatial navigation tasks using in vivo physiology methods (electrophysiology, photometry, optogenetics).

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Thomas Akam (thomas.akam@psy.ox.ac.uk).

The successful candidate will have MSc or equivalent degree in a relevant discipline, and hold a Personal Licence to conduct animal-based scientific work (minimum PIL A,B). They will also have considerable experience in laboratory-based research with excellent communication, organisational and time management skills and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

The post is part-time (12.5 hours per week) and is fixed-term for 2 years, funded by the Wellcome Trust.

As an employer, we genuinely care about your happiness and wellbeing at work and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
An excellent contributory pension scheme

38 days annual leave

A comprehensive range of childcare services

Family leave schemes

Cycle loan scheme

Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs


Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement detailing how you meet the selection criteria, your CV, and the contact details of two referees as part of your application.

For further details please refer to the "How to apply" section of the job description.

The closing date for applications is midday on 31 October 2025 and only applications received by this date will be considered.

We are committed to equality and valuing diversity.