Contract & job type: Permanent
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:
This is an exciting opportunity to join our Human Resources Team as HR Assistant. The ideal candidate will be a highly organised and detail-oriented professional with proven experience in administration, ideally within higher education or a similarly complex environment. They will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and have a proactive and flexible approach, excelling in managing multiple tasks, maintaining confidentiality, and providing exceptional service to staff and stakeholders.
In this role, you will be responsible for managing the recruitment lifecycle, supporting payroll administration, maintaining accurate personnel records, ensuring compliance with employment legislation, and providing first-line HR support to staff and managers while contributing to the smooth delivery of HR services across the department. This post is available immediately.
Key responsibilities:
• Manage the full recruitment lifecycle including vacancy identification, creating and advertising job postings, shortlisting candidates, coordinating interviews, issuing contracts, and onboarding new employees.
• Handle payroll-related tasks, including monthly updates for new starters, leavers, and changes, ensuring compliance with deadlines and proper authorisation.
• Act as the first point of contact for HR-related enquiries, managing communications via telephone, email, and in person.
• Oversee processes for probation and annual reviews.
• Maintain confidential personnel records and ensure compliance with retention policies.
• Generate and analyse regular and ad-hoc reports on workforce data.
• Plan and prioritise workload to meet deadlines accurately and efficiently.
Selection criteria:
• GCSE (grade A-C) in English and Mathematics or equivalent.
• Strong customer service and communication skills to engage professionally with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to build effective relationships with colleagues, departments, and external contacts.
• Excellent organisational and multitasking skills, with a strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficient in HR systems (e.g., PeopleXD), Microsoft Office, and data entry.
• Proven ability to handle confidential material appropriately, with an understanding of data protection.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
What we offer:
Your wellbeing at work matters, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:
• Hybrid working
• 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
While this is a full-time role, we welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
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 20th January.
Interviews are likely to take place within the first two weeks of February and will be held both in-person and on Microsoft Teams.
Follow us:
Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, X 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.