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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in cognitive neuroscience and support innovative studies.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford, a leader in global research excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, excellent pension, childcare services, and more.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive team with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on mental health research while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Neuroscience, Psychology, or related field with research experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic. The Department of Psychiatry is based on the Warneford Hospital site in Oxford – a friendly, welcoming place of work with an international reputation for excellence. The Department has a substantial research programme, with major funding from Medical Research Council (MRC), Wellcome Trust and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and provides highly rated medical training in psychiatry.
We are seeking two research assistants to join the laboratories of Prof Michael Browning and Prof Jacinta O'Shea, based in the Department of Psychiatry at Oxford. The groups have strong links to other researchers in Oxford and collaborators worldwide. The posts are funded by a Wellcome Trust Mental Health Award, which is supporting work in the groups of Michael Browning, Jacinta O'Shea and Miriam Klein-Flugge in Oxford, as well as projects in Zurich and Exeter.
What We Offer
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
- Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
About the Role
The post is funded for 1 year and is based in the Department of Psychiatry at the Warneford Hospital. You will conduct research involving cognitive tasks, MRI and neuromodulation studies (ultrasound and TMS) investigating the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying habitual behaviour. You will help design studies and collect data: including, study setup, recruiting participants, collecting both behavioural and neuroimaging data from studies. You will support the postdoctoral researcher in data analysis and write up and provide support to other ongoing projects in the lab.
About You
You will hold a first degree, or masters, in Neuroscience, Psychology, Medicine or a related discipline with previous research experience (e.g., as an undergraduate, intern or research assistant) in human neuroscience research. With demonstrable experience with one of the key methods required for the job, (MRI, TUS, TMS or cognitive task design and modelling) you will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write text that can be published. Analytical and programming expertise is desirable.
Diversity
Committed to equality and valuing diversity. Our active Psychiatry People and Culture teams and initiatives including our values and behaviours framework, work to make the Department of Psychiatry as supportive, welcoming and inclusive as possible.
Application Process
You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. Please see the University pages on the application process at. The closing date for applications is 3 February 2026. Interviews will take place during the week commencing 23 February 2026.
Research Assistant in Cognitive Neuroscience employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Cognitive Neuroscience
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Oxford, especially in the Department of Psychiatry. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the research being done by Prof Browning and Prof O'Shea. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to their projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to articulate your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing complex topics like cognitive tasks and neuroimaging. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to sharpen your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at the University of Oxford.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Cognitive Neuroscience
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in neuroscience and research. We want to see your passion for cognitive neuroscience and how you can contribute to our exciting projects.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your skills and experiences that align with the role. Include any specific research methods you've worked with, like MRI or TMS, to catch our eye.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key, make sure your application reflects this. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well. We want to see that you can write effectively, as this will be crucial in your role.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the position. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in cognitive neuroscience, especially the work of Professors Browning and O'Shea. Being able to discuss their studies and how your experience aligns with their research will show your genuine interest and preparation.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to talk about your previous research experience, particularly any work involving MRI, TUS, or TMS. Prepare specific examples of how you've contributed to study design, data collection, or analysis, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication skills are a must, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to describe your research in a way that could be understood by someone outside your field, so clarity is key!
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask about the department's culture, ongoing projects, or future research directions. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.