Research Assistant

Research Assistant

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join the Derrick group at the Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine. The position will support the group's research into the genetic origins of Bicuspid Aortic Valve, the most common congenital heart disease. The ideal candidate will hold a degree in a relevant biological subject, have experience working with zebrafish and good lab skills. In this role, you will be responsible for general laboratory management, maintain animal colonies and run a research project. This post is fixed term until 31/01/2030.

Key responsibilities:

• Manage own research and administrative activities, within guidelines provided by senior colleagues
• Contribute to wider project planning, including ideas for new research projects
• Determine the most appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses, and identify suitable alternatives if technical problems arise
• 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 the presentation of data/papers at conferences
• Responsible for general laboratory management and administration, including stock control of laboratory consumables
• Working with the Principal Investigator, maintain efficient running of animal colonies
• Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone

  Selection criteria:

  • Hold a degree in a relevant biological subject, together with experience of working in a lab environment
  • Possess a basic understanding and experience of molecular biology techniques e.g. PCR, CRISPR, cloning
  • Ability to troubleshoot within own capabilities and communicate difficulties
  • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write text that can be published, present data at conferences, and represent the research group at meetings

    What we offer:

    • 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

      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 Tuesday 15th September 2026. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 21st September 2026, and will be held on Microsoft Teams in the first instance. Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.