Applications are invited for a Post-Doctoral neuronal cell and molecular biologist to work on a new project to develop a novel gene therapy for Parkinson’s in patient stem cell-derived neurons and in transgenic rodent models. The project in collaboration with Kaleibe Therapeutics represents an exciting opportunity to undertake translational work into biological therapeutics at the interface between academic and industrial research in an exceptional setting. This work will develop novel gene therapies for Parkinson’s by expression of complete genomic DNA transgenes from HSV1 viral vectors to correct cellular phenotypes in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived dopamine neurons generated from Parkinson’s patients and in transgenic rodent models.

Duties will include the design, generation and delivery of HSV1 gene expression vectors to in vitro and in vivo models of Parkinson’s to study phenotypic correction; undertaking laboratory experiments; interpretation of data; imaging analysis; maintenance and differentiation of iPSC-derived neurons and cell lines; stereotactic surgery in transgenic rodents; preparation of data for publication; contribute to wider project planning and determine the most appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses. You will have excellent practical experience of neuronal cell cultures and DNA gene expression plasmid vectors, and a good knowledge of cellular models of neurodegenerative disease. The ability to innovate, trouble-shoot technical problems, be meticulous in practical work and in record keeping is essential.

Applicants must hold, or be near completion of, a PhD in a relevant area of research and have experience in cellular neuroscience or molecular cell biology relevant to analysis of neuronal phenotypes in vitro and in vivo.

The post is available for three years to start as soon as possible. The post will be based in the Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, South Parks Road, Oxford.

Informal enquiries may be directed Professor Richard Wade-Martins (richard.wade-martins@dpag.ox.ac.uk).

Closing date for applications is midday on Monday 6th March 2023

Interviews are likely to be held on the week beginning 13th March 2023.

Applications are particularly welcome from women, black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.

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