Research Assistant

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist to work on a research project at the Oxford Parkinson's Disease Centre (OPDC) to functionally identify new genes underlying Parkinson’s disease.

This is an exciting opportunity to support CRISPRi functional screening in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived dopamine neurons. This project will undertake functional analysis of GWAS loci to identify new genes underlying the cellular pathology of Parkinson’s, focused on the endolysosomal system to better understand the molecular mechanisms of the disease.

Duties include differentiation and analysis of iPSC-derived neurons and cell lines; use of CRISPRi technology; high-content imaging analysis; design and implementation of experiments; interpretation of data; preparation of data for publication; contributions to wider project planning and determine the most appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses as well as performing general laboratory management.

You will have excellent practical experience of working with cell cultures, preferably using iPSC models or neurons, and knowledge of cellular models of neurodegenerative disease. The ability to innovate, trouble-shoot technical problems, be meticulous in practical work and in record keeping is also essential. Applicants must hold, or be near completion of, a BSc or MSc in a relevant area of research and have experience in cellular neuroscience, and molecular cell biology relevant to analysis of neuronal phenotypes.

The fixed-term post is available from September 1st 2023 until January 31st 2025. The post will be based in the Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT. Informal enquiries may be directed Professor Richard Wade-Martins (richard.wade-martins@dpag.ox.ac.uk).

Closing date for applications is midday on Tuesday 27 June 2023.

Interviews are likely to be held the week beginning 03 July 2023.

Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.

We, as a Department and Community, will be considerate and welcoming of all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity. We acknowledge societal inequalities and how these impact us, and those around us, personally and professionally. – DPAG Statement of Inclusion.