Research Assistant

Are you ready to be part of ground-breaking research at the forefront of molecular neurodegeneration? The newly established Oxford-GSK Institute for Molecular & Computational Medicine (IMCM) is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the group led by Oxford-GSK IMCM Fellow, Dr. Fowler.

As a Research Assistant within the Fowler Lab, you will play a crucial role in advancing scientific objectives. Your responsibilities span the culture and characterization of cell lines and extracellular vesicle (EV) populations, employing techniques including ultracentrifugation and cellular fractionation, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry, and super-resolution microscopy. With a knack for innovation, you'll select, follow, and adapt experimental protocols, contributing to diverse data sources.

You will support projects by assisting in the culture of immortalised and iPSC-derived models of tauopathy, in the development and testing of novel fluorescent expansion microscopy techniques, in the isolation and characterisation of secreted EVs, and by helping to analyse samples of cells and human brain tissue. You will assist in the general running of the lab; including reagent ordering, lab organisation, and common reagent preparation. Overall, your multifaceted role ensures a dynamic and impactful contribution to the Fowler Lab's research endeavours.

It is essential that you hold a BSc degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Genetics/Genomics or related area, together with experience in general molecular biology techniques (eg. immunoblotting, immunofluorescence) and lab-based research. You will also have experience in tissue culture (eg. immortalised cell lines, and/or iPSC neurons/glia). You should possess a working knowledge of relevant statistical and analysis programs, such as GraphPad Prism, Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills are essential, as the role involves collaborative engagement within the lab and effective communication with team members. Exceptional scientific communication skills, including the ability to present results in weekly lab meetings and at departmental or external meetings, are highly valued.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract for 2 years and is funded by the IMCM.

Only applications received before 12 midday on 11 March 2024 will be considered. Please quote 170972 on all correspondence.