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 postdoctoral researcher to join the Fernandes Group. The ideal candidate will be expected to have strong experience with human iPSC neuronal and glial cells (preferably in the context of neurodegeneration) and have prior experience with lipid biology. In this role, you will be responsible for culture and manipulation of human iPSC neurons and glial cells and for developing a new platform for sub-cellular lipid profiling to identify new mechanisms of lipid dysregulation in the context of Alzheimer’s disease. This post is available until the 30/06/2028, with the potential for extension.
Key responsibilities:
- Culture and manipulate human iPSC and undertake their differentiation into neurons and glial cells
- Design, validate, troubleshoot, and perform relevant assays to interrogate lipid dysregulation induced in iPSC models.
- 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
- Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters
- Act as a source of information training and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques
- 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 a PhD/DPhil (or close to completion) in biochemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience or a related field.
- Experience with human iPSC culture models, preferably neurons and glia.
- Prior work experience with lipid biology
- Knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s Disease.
- Experience in molecular biology and cloning methodologies, following and adapting protocols and setting up cellular assays
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present results, and represent the research group at meetings.
- Be highly motivated, organised, keep meticulous records and have the capacity to think creatively.
- Ability to manage own research and administrative activities.
- Commitment to engage with, and promote awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion and embedding these into your work.
Desirable:
- Experience with mass-spec lipidomic analysis
- Experience with iPSC-disease models of neurodegenerative diseases
- Experience of working productively in a multi-disciplinary team.
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 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 Monday 17th August.
Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 24th of August and will be held in hybrid format (in person and on 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:
[email protected]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.
