Research Assistant

The Research Assistant will provide research support for a neuroscience laboratory that studies how cortical circuitry enables behaviour. The laboratory combines model organisms’ behavioural paradigms with cutting-edge techniques (2-photon microscopy, array recording, whole-cell recording, optogenetics, modelling). The post holder provides scientific, technical, and administrative support to the lab members. Scientists include the principal investigator (Prof. Randy Bruno), postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and undergraduates. Opportunities exist for the post holder to conduct their own scientific project within the scope of the lab’s mission.

You will be responsible for general laboratory management and administration, including consumables and animal model colonies. You will have the opportunity to use specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment, whilst managing your own research and administrative activities. The Research Assistant will be expected to contribute to wider project planning, including ideas for new research projects. You will also determine the most appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses, and identify suitable alternatives if technical problems arise. Day-to-day you will select, follow, and adapt experimental protocols; gather, analyse, and present scientific data from a variety of sources; contribute to scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present data/papers at conferences.

The successful candidate will hold, or be close to completion of, a first degree, together with relevant experience. You should possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes, and have experience of following and adapting protocols and selecting appropriate experimental methodologies. It is essential that you have both excellent communication skills and the ability to manage your own research and administrative activities. It is also important within the Department that you are committed to engaging with, and promoting awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion and embedding these into your work.

The post is available from March 2023 and will be based in The Department of Physiology Anatomy & Genetics, Sherrington Building, Sherrington Rd, Oxford OX1 3PT.

Informal enquiries may be directed to the DPAG HR Team – hr@dpag.ox.ac.uk

Closing date for applications is midday on 13 March 2023.

Interviews are likely to be held on 20 March 2023.

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