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 in Virology, Cell Biology, Neuroscience, 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.







