Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Retinal Gene Therapy

Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (NDCN), John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU Applicants are invited to apply for a for a postdoctoral research assistant vacancy within the Kapetanovic Group reporting to the PI, Professor Jasmina Kapetanovic, Associate Professor at the University of Oxford and Consultant Vitreoretinal Surgeon at the Oxford Eye Hospital. Over the past decade, Professor Kapetanovic has been at the forefront of basic science and translational medical research into novel clinical treatments for incurable retinal diseases. The main objectives of Professor Kapetanovic's research programmes are the:

• Discovery and development of new genetic therapies for retinal diseases.
• Investigation of innovative ocular surgical techniques including robotic eye surgery.
• Testing of novel therapies for retinal diseases in human clinical trials.
  
  We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral research assistant to join our translational gene therapy program, developing novel adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy treatments for inherited retinal disease (IRD). The successful candidate will generate translational research data required to support the preclinical development of new treatments including in vitro and in vivo proof-of-concept efficacy data. This is an opportunity to work across multiple disciplines spanning retinal biology, viral vector technology and translational medicine in a milestone-driven research environment that bridges early discovery and clinical application. We are looking for a highly qualified individual with outstanding academic credentials, who can work well under pressure and manage multiple tasks in a milestone-orientated research environment.
The candidate should hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in biomedical sciences or a related field. Prior experience in the development of retinal gene therapies, including viral vector engineering and electrophysiological, functional and behavioural assays, is highly desirable. A background in retinal research and previous work with in vitro and in vivo models of genetic eye diseases would be advantageous. The post holder is a member of a research group with responsibility for carrying out research for a discrete area of a large project. The post holder provides guidance to less experienced members of the research group, including postdocs, research assistants, technicians, and PhD and project students.