Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist: “Biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease”

Full-time, Fixed-term for 2 years

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist to work on a project to discover novel biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease. The project, funded by the Michael J Fox Foundation and in collaboration with EndLyz, a new company within the Dementia Discovery Fund (DDF) portfolio, represents an exciting opportunity to undertake translation work at the interface between academic research and pharmaceutical target and drug discovery in an exceptional setting. This work will develop novel biomarkers to better understand lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s by working with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived dopamine neurons generated from Parkinson’s patients.

Duties will include undertaking laboratory experiments; interpretation of data; imaging analysis; generation and study of iPSC-derived neurons and cell lines; preparation of data for publication; study biomarker read-outs of endolysosomal dysfunction in cellular models of Parkinson’s; contribute to wider project planning and determine the most appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses. You will have excellent practical experience of working with induced pluripotent stem cell cultures and good 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 essential.

Applicants must hold, or be near completion of, a BSc/MSc in a relevant area of research and have experience in cellular neuroscience or molecular cell biology relevant to analysis of neuronal phenotypes.

The post is available for 24 months to start as soon as possible. The post will be based in the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT

Informal enquiries may be directed Professor Richard Wade-Martins ([email protected]).

Closing date for applications is midday on Thursday 11 April 2024.

Interviews are likely to be held on the week beginning 22 April 2024.

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

While this is a full-time role, we welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

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