Research Associate

Contract Type: This post is fixed-term with a start date of 1 September 2023 for a period of 3 years. There is scope to negotiate an earlier/later start date with candidates at interview

Faculty: Faculty of Science

Location: Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield

Why are brains the way they are? Do neural circuits function in an “optimal” way, and if so, in what sense are they optimal? How do brains encode sensory information and form associative memories? 

We are seeking postdoctoral research associates to study these fundamental questions in neuroscience in the olfactory system of the fruit fly Drosophila. You will join Dr Andrew Lin’s laboratory and undertake independent research to discover neuronal plasticity mechanisms that underlie associative memory and the maintenance of optimal sensory coding, in the Drosophila mushroom body (the fly’s olfactory memory centre). 

This research will use a range of techniques including in vivo two-photon calcium imaging, electrophysiology, fly genetics, behavioral experiments, computational modelling and building custom equipment. The exact project can be tailored to your background, You will be required to be able to contribute significantly to the research in Dr. Lin’s laboratory by designing, developing, and performing experiments and data analysis and by disseminating the findings by writing papers and abstracts and presenting work at conferences and seminars. You will work in collaboration with other members of the laboratory participating in these studies, but will report directly to Dr. Lin.

Applicants must hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in a relevant field/discipline (or equivalent experience), you must have excellent communication skills and an ability to work in a team. Significant scientific experience acquired through application in a working environment in some of the following areas are also essential: Live in vivo imaging; Data analysis; Drosophila genetics; Electrophysiology; Behavioural experiments; Computer programming / computational modelling of neural circuits and/or; Designing and building custom equipment. 

We welcome self-motivated, innovative, and creative applicants from a range of academic backgrounds, including biology, neuroscience, experimental psychology, computer science, physics and engineering. 

We’re one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The University’s Total Reward Package includes a competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and development courses to support your personal and professional development. 

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

 To find out what makes the University of Sheffield a remarkable place to work, watch this short film: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LblLk18zmo, and follow @sheffielduni and @ShefUniJobs on Twitter for more information. 

Apply now by clicking on the Apply button located above.

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