Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Contract & job type: Full-time, fixed term for 4 years

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 Research Scientist to join the Bruno group. The ideal candidate will have experience with two-photon microscopy and the study of neural circuitry. In this role, you will be responsible for in vivo two- or three-photon microscopy studies of synaptic plasticity resulting from behavioural learning.

While the post is full time, flexible schedules are possible providing they overlap with group meetings, individual meetings, and other standard workday events that are scheduled from time to time. Remote work is possible for some duties, but on-site presence is essential for some core duties, such as experiments.

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
• Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters
• Act as a source of information 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

Selection criteria:

• Hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in Neuroscience, together with relevant experience
• Ability to manage own academic research and associated activities
• Previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations
• Strong decision making, problem-solving, planning and organising skills
• Good written and in-person communication skills
• Commitment to engaging with, and promoting awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion and embedding these into your work

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 Wednesday 09^th April 2025.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 14^th April 2025, and will be held on Microsoft Teams.

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

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. Our policies, practices and Respectful Behaviours Framework underpin this commitment.

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