We are looking for a motivated and dynamic research assistant to join Dr Dan Ma’s lab at Aston Medical School on a two-year Academy of Medical Sciences-funded project focused on neurodegeneration and stem cell biology. The study investigates how APOE4 expression in endothelial cells affects oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs), using iPSC-derived 3D co-culture models. This work aims to uncover cellular mechanisms of neurovascular dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease and identify potential therapeutic targets. The successful candidate will be part of a collaborative team researching myelin protection in neurological disorders, building on recent publications by the group (Ma et al., Glia, 2024; Xu et al., Journal of Neurochemistry, 2025).
The role involves the culture and differentiation of iPSC lines into endothelial cells and OPCs, as well as conducting co-culture experiments to assess APOE4-related cellular interactions. It requires the use of molecular and cellular biology techniques, including immunocytochemistry, Western blotting, and qPCR, alongside the application of microscopic imaging techniques. Responsibilities also include data collection, analysis, and presentation, as well as contributing to the day-to-day running of the lab.
Candidates should hold a good BSc or MSc in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Biomedical Science, Biochemistry, or a related discipline. Practical experience with mammalian cell culture is essential, ideally involving endothelial cells, OPCs, iPSCs, or neural cell models. Enthusiasm for neuroscience and neurodegenerative disease research is important, along with strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team is also essential.
The successful candidate will receive training in advanced iPSC technologies, neurodegeneration models, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing research programme with the potential to lead to PhD study or further career development in biomedical research.
For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Dan Ma at d.ma@aston.ac.uk.
The salary being offered for this role does not meet the minimum threshold required to sponsor new applicants to the Skilled Worker visa route. For candidates who do not already have a Skilled Worker visa, it is unlikely that Aston University will be able to offer sponsorship under this route. Please click here to see the Home Office guidance for more information.
If you are already in the UK with an existing Tier 2 or Skilled Worker visa, please contact hr_immigration@aston.ac.uk to discuss if the role will meet the eligibility criteria for Skilled Worker sponsorship.
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