Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist:“Biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s [...]

Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist:“Biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s [...]

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
University of Oxford

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on biomarkers for Parkinson's disease using innovative cell models.
  • Company: Join a leading research team at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery in Oxford.
  • Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, work in a supportive environment, and contribute to meaningful scientific advancements.
  • Other info: Flexible working arrangements available; we celebrate diversity and inclusion in our community.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in understanding Parkinson's disease while developing your research skills.
  • Qualifications: BSc/MSc in relevant field with experience in cellular neuroscience or molecular biology.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

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, represents an exciting opportunity to undertake translation work at the interface between academic research and pharmaceutical target and drug discovery.

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.

Responsibilities

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
  • Contributing to wider project planning and determining 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, troubleshoot technical problems, and be meticulous in practical work and record keeping is essential.

Recruitment Criteria

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.

Details

The post is available for 24 months to start on January 1st 2024. The post will be based in the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT.

Inclusion

Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are underrepresented 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.

Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist:“Biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s [...] employer: University of Oxford

Join a pioneering research environment at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery in Oxford, where you will contribute to groundbreaking work on biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. Our inclusive and supportive culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With a commitment to diversity and flexible working arrangements, we strive to create a workplace that values every individual's contribution and perspective.

University of Oxford

Contact Details:

University of Oxford Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist:“Biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s [...]

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of cellular neuroscience or molecular cell biology. Attend relevant seminars or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of lysosomal dysfunction and Parkinson’s disease. Be ready to discuss your practical experience with iPSC cultures and how you can contribute to the project. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but also passionate about the research!

Tip Number 3

Don’t forget to showcase your problem-solving skills! During interviews, share examples of how you’ve tackled technical challenges in the lab. This will demonstrate your ability to innovate and troubleshoot, which is crucial for this role.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our community. Make sure to highlight your unique experiences and how they align with our mission!

We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant neuronal cell biologist:“Biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson’s [...]

Laboratory Experimentation
Data Interpretation
Imaging Analysis
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Cultures
Cell Line Generation
Biomarker Analysis
Neuronal Phenotype Analysis

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in cellular neuroscience and molecular cell biology. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your practical lab work and any projects related to neurodegenerative diseases.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about researching biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction in Parkinson's. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear connection between your background and our project goals.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, mention specific instances where you've innovated or troubleshot technical problems in the lab. We value meticulousness and creativity, so share examples that demonstrate these qualities in your previous work.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford

Know Your Science

Make sure you brush up on the latest research related to lysosomal dysfunction and Parkinson's disease. Familiarise yourself with key concepts, methodologies, and recent findings in cellular neuroscience and molecular cell biology. This will not only help you answer technical questions but also show your genuine interest in the field.

Prepare for Practical Questions

Expect questions that assess your practical experience with induced pluripotent stem cell cultures and cellular models. Be ready to discuss specific experiments you've conducted, challenges you've faced, and how you overcame them. Highlight your meticulousness in record-keeping and data interpretation.

Show Your Problem-Solving Skills

During the interview, be prepared to demonstrate your ability to innovate and troubleshoot. You might be asked to think through a hypothetical problem related to your research. Use this opportunity to showcase your critical thinking and how you approach scientific challenges.

Emphasise Collaboration

Since this role involves working within a team and contributing to wider project planning, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past projects, and express your enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary environment like the one at the Kavli Institute.