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

Full-time, Fixed-term for 2 years

Applications are invited for a post-doctoral neuronal biologist to work on biomarker profiles of lysosomal dysfunction in pre-clinical models of Parkinson’s. 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 translational work at the interface between academic research and pharmaceutical target and drug discovery in an exceptional setting. The project will examine metabolomic biomarkers of endolysosomal dysfunction to better understand mechanisms of disease pathology, and to establish how the biomarker profile may change on treatment with potential therapeutic compounds.

Duties include design and implementation of experiments; interpretation of data; metabolomic profiling in Parkinson’s transgenic mouse models; biochemistry, immunohistochemistry and molecular neuropathology studies in brain samples from transgenic mice; preparation of data for publication; contribute ideas for new research projects and develop ideas for generating research income; manage own academic research involving small-scale project management and act as a source of information to other members of the group.

You will have excellent knowledge and practical experience of working with pre-clinical transgenic models of neurodegenerative disease. The ability to innovate, trouble-shoot technical problems, be meticulous in practical work and in record keeping is also essential. Applicants must hold, or be near completion of, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant area of research and have experience in cellular neuroscience, and molecular cell biology relevant to analysis of neuronal phenotypes.

The post is available for two years from 1st January 2024. The post will be based in the Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, 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