Research Assistant

Contract \& job type: Full-time, fixed-term for 12 months

About us: At the Department of Physiology Anatomy \& Genetics (DPAG) we undertake discovery science where we reassemble physiological processes at the molecular, cellular, tissue and systems level of organisation. In so doing we provide a bridge to translational medicine, and interface between physical and life sciences. We are committed not only to innovative research and the highest standard of teaching, but also to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment.

Overview of the role: We are seeking a talented and enthusiastic Research Assistant to join the group of Dr Oliver Stone at the Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine (IDRM). The lab investigates the formation of the vertebrate vasculature, with a particular focus on understanding the specification of lymphatic endothelial cells, a specialised cell type that forms the inner lining of lymphatic vessels.

The ideal candidate will have practical experience of developmental biology and embryology, experience of mammalian cell culture, be highly organized, and demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team. Excellent communication skills are essential.

In this role, the successful applicant will contribute to research exploring normal lymphatic development and improving in vitro models of lymphatic specification.

This post is available from 01st September 2026 for up to 12 months in the first instance. Informal inquiries can be sent to Dr Oliver Stone via email: [email protected]

Key responsibilities: * Manage own academic research and administrative activities, within guidelines provided by senior colleagues * Select, follow, and adapt experimental protocols independently * Gather, analyse, and present scientific data from a variety of sources with high accuracy, and integrate findings with outputs from other group members and collaborators. * Contribute to scientific reports and journal articles and the presentation of data/papers at conferences * Contribute to the training and supervision of junior researchers, students, and visiting scientists in relevant techniques. * Undertake training as and when asked to do so.

Selection criteria: * Hold a first degree in a relevant field. * Ability to manage own research and administrative activities. * Excellent communication skills, including evidence of the ability to write text that can be published. * Experience of working with mammalian cell culture, including cell transfection. * Technical experience of working in developmental biology and embryology. * Experience with wholemount in situ hybridisation and immunostaining. * Experience of high-resolution imaging and analyses using confocal microscopy. * Commitment to engaging with, and promoting awareness of, equality, diversity and inclusion and embedding these into your work.

Desirable selection criteria: * Experience of contributing to reports and articles for publication * Experience of working in a research team and contributing ideas for new research projects * Technical experience of tissue grafting in model systems.

What we offer: Your wellbeing at work matters, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including: * An excellent contributory pension scheme * 38 days annual leave * A comprehensive range of childcare services * Family leave schemes * Cycle and electric car loan schemes * Employee Assistance Programme * Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs * Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

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.

How to apply: Please provide a supporting statement outlining how you meet the selection criteria along with your CV, and the details of two referees as part of your online application. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 29th June 2026. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 06th July 2026, and will be held on Microsoft Teams. Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.

Follow us: Stay connected with us on Eurostaffs, Bluesky and Instagram to learn more about our work and culture. Informal enquiries about the role may be directed to the DPAG HR Team: [email protected]

DPAG’s Statement of Inclusion: We, as a Department and Community, will be considerate and welcoming of all people, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and socio-economic background. We acknowledge societal inequalities and how these impact us, and those around us, personally and professionally. Our policies, practices and Respectful Behaviours Framework underpin this commitment.

DPAG and Sustainability: We have signed up to The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) and Green Impact, actively implementing and encouraging eco-friendly practices that reduce waste, promote energy efficiency, and promote bio-diversity. See the job description for more detail.