University of Oxford • Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Sherrington Building, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

About this role

Contract & job type

Fixed-term for 2 years, full time. This post is available from 11th August 2026.

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 Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the Paterson research group, reporting to Associate Professor Dan Li. The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing research support for BHF-funded projects investigating co-culture model development to study the mechanisms of arrhythmia in human channelopathies, and will provide advice and guidance to research students where appropriate. This post is available from 11th August 2026 and is fixed term for 2 years. The latest possible start date for this post is 01st January 2027.

Key responsibilities

Manage own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small scale project management, to co-ordinate multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines

Adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols

Test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate

Contribute ideas for new research projects

Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone

Selection criteria

Hold, or be near to completion of a relevant PhD/DPhil

Excellent practical experience of working with iPSC generation, culture and differentiation to cardiomyocytes/sympathetic neurons

Knowledge of cellular models of cardiovascular disease and 3D cultures

Experience in electrophysiological (especially in Optical Mapping and MEA measurement) and tissue engineering methodologies

Ability to manage own academic research and associated activities

Previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations

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

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 Monday 18th May 2026.

Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 25th May 2026.

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 LinkedIn, Bluesky and Instagram to learn more about our work and culture. Informal enquiries about the role may be directed to the

DPAG HR Team

hr@dpag.ox.ac.uk

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.