Research Assistant

Contract & job type: Fixed-term, Full-time until 30 June 2028.

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 to join the research group of Professor Stephanie Cragg on a discovery project in the field of striatal neurobiology. The ideal candidate will have a first University degree in a neuroscience-related subject and some relevant laboratory experience, and enthusiasm for conducting research and managing their own activities.  In this role, you will be responsible for assisting with general laboratory organization, assisting with practical experimental work and regulated procedures under a Home Office Personal Licence, conducting immunocytochemistry and microscopy on brain tissue, and managing datasets and protocols. This post is available until 30 June 2028

Key responsibilities:

• General laboratory tasks such as stocking consumables, keeping inventories of reagents, organising servicing of equipment, and keeping laboratory space clean and organised.
• Obtain a UK Home Office Personal Licence (PIL A, B & C) to conduct or assist with intracranial surgery in animal models.
• Assist with obtaining research data, such as immunocytochemistry and microscopy in brain tissue, molecular or chemical analyses of brain tissue, real-time detection of neuromodulators in brain tissue.
• Contribute to the management for genotyping of transgenic animal model colonies, liaising with the biomedical services team and other colony managers in the team.

Selection criteria:

• Hold a first University degree in a neuroscience-related subject
• Relevant laboratory experience
• Sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes
• Ability to manage own research and administrative activities
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write text that can be published, present data at conferences, and represent the research group at meetings
• Experience of following and adapting protocols and selecting appropriate experimental methodologies
• Commitment to engaging with, and promoting awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion and embedding these into your work
• Experience with working with animal models 

How to apply:

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing May 19, and will be face to face or 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. 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. 

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