Summary
The University of Oxford is seeking a dedicated Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to groundbreaking research on the molecular mechanisms of arbovirus infection in the human brain, focusing on the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). This role is crucial for understanding viral neuropathogenesis and developing therapeutic strategies.
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Life and Mind Building, South Parks Road, OX1 3EL, UK
Designation
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Virology, Cell Biology, Neuroscience |
| Location | Life and Mind Building, South Parks Road, OX1 3EL |
| Eligibility/Qualification | PhD/DPhil in virology, cell biology, neuroscience or closely related field |
| Salary | £39,424 – £47,779 per annum |
| Pay Scale | Research Grade 7 |
| Closing Date for Applications | 16-Jun-2026 at 12:00 noon |
Research Area
This project addresses a critical gap in understanding the factors contributing to severe neurological diseases caused by arboviruses, specifically exploring viral and host determinants of neuropathogenesis using TBEV as a model.
Eligibility/Qualification
- PhD/DPhil in virology, cell biology, neuroscience, or a closely related field.
- Strong expertise in molecular virology and viral neuropathogenesis.
- Proven experience in generating, culturing, and differentiating human iPSCs and iPSC-derived neuronal systems, including brain organoids or blood-brain barrier models.
- Familiarity with applying transcriptomic/proteomic approaches to study virus-host interactions.
- Proficient in genetic manipulation techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9.
- Experience in high-containment (BSL-3) laboratory environments.
Job Description
As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will:
- Investigate molecular mechanisms of arbovirus infection in the human brain within a multidisciplinary team.
- Contribute to the development, validation, and application of advanced human iPSC-derived neuronal systems and multi-omics approaches.
- Characterize host-virus interactions that drive encephalitic disease, aiming to inform future therapeutic strategies.
- Exhibit strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a research-intensive environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online via the University of Oxford’s e-recruitment system and upload a supporting statement and CV as part of the application process.
For queries, contact Dr. Niluka Goonawardane, Principal Investigator, Wellcome CDA Fellow at Niluka.goonawardane@briology.ox.ac.uk.
Last Date for Apply
The closing date for applications is 16-Jun-2026 at 12:00 noon.
