Postdoc Research Associate

Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (NDCN), Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, South Parks OX1 3QU

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist with a strong background in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) differentiations and computational analysis to join Dr Ruxandra Dafinca’s group within the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a specific research project aimed at investigating local subcellular dysfunction in synapses of neurons from ALS/FTD patients using multi-omics. They will work under Dr Ruxandra Dafinca’s supervision (https://www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/ruxandra-dafinca) in a stimulating environment as part of the Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre and will be based in the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of novel strategies for neuronal analysis in health and disease and optimizing novel methods. The project is funded by My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, as part of their Catalyst Awards. 

Using iPSC-neurons, our group aims to determine regulatory pathways affected by disease by implementing the use of spatial proteomics combined with transcriptomics and live imaging. The total proteome of a neuron includes a vast array of proteins involved in numerous cellular processes. This complexity can make it challenging to pinpoint disease-relevant changes. By narrowing the focus to the presynaptic proteome, we can reduce this complexity, making it easier to identify and study proteins that are directly involved in synaptic dysfunction. In this project, we will implement a novel spatial proteomics strategy to analyse the proteome of the organelles localized in the presynaptic areas of motor neurons from ALS patients and integrate the altered protein distributions with local transcriptomic changes. The overarching goal of our work is to identify new therapeutic targets that can inform drug development for ALS/FTD. 

Laboratory work will involve differentiations of human iPSCs to motor neurons, developing microfluidic and transwell culture systems, preparing samples for mass-spectrometry and RNA sequencing. Previous experience with complex in vitro culture systems, such as microfluidic chambers, is essential. It is also expected that the successful candidate will contribute to the computational analysis of multi-omic data that will be generated during the project. The candidate must hold or be near completion to a PhD/DPhil in Neuroscience/Biochemistry or relevant discipline and have excellent previous laboratory experience. The post-holder will also be expected to contribute to the training and mentoring of postgraduate students and junior members of the group.

For any enquiries regarding the project, please contact Dr Ruxandra Dafinca (Ruxandra.dafinca@ndcn.ox.ac.uk).

Please see the below 'Job Description' for further details on the responsibilities and selection criteria, as well as further information about the university and how to apply.

The post is full time for a fixed term, available from 18th August 2025 until 17th August 2026.

Only applications received before 12.00 midday on Wednesday 21st May will be considered.

Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter. 

Contact Person: NDCN HR Recruitment

Closing Date & Time: 21-May-2025 12:00

Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 7

Contact Email: recruitment@ndcn.ox.ac.uk

Salary (£): £38,674 – £46,913 per annum. A less experienced candidate may be appointed at Research Grade 6 (£34,982 to £40,855) per annum, with a commensurate adjustment in either the essential criteria, responsibilities or duties.

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