Senior Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Senior Research Associate (Core Service Technologist with a specialist in Neuroscience) to join the Institute of Metabolic Science Metabolic Research Laboratories with the Clinical School of Biochemistry at the University of Cambridge (https://www.mrl.ims.cam.ac.uk/). 

The Senior Research Associate/Technologist will work closely with the Blouet group and Disease Model Core (DMC) to simultaneously support the research and advancement of in vivo metabolic phenotyping by developing, optimising, validating and standardising protocols that integrate discrete peripheral or central optogenetic/chemogenetic manipulations with advanced metabolic, behavioural, and neuroendocrine assessments and/or surgical models. The role is expected to integrate new protocols into the DMC operations and address the needs of the department in relation to metabolic and nutrient sensing circuits in physiological conditions. 

Applicants must have a PhD in Neuroscience, Psychology or related field, along with ideally at least three years of postdoctoral experience in Neuroscience and an excellent academic record and peer-reviewed publications that have had an impact in the field. Relevant disciplines include optogenetics in vivo, fiber photometry, manipulation of defined neural cell types in mice, stereotaxic surgery in mice, behavioural phenotyping and operant conditioning. The applicant should hold a Home Office PIL modules ABC, or equivalent qualification working with animals in scientific research internationally. 

Informal enquiries about this post may be directed to both Dr Clemence Blouet, MRC Metabolic Disease Unit Programme Leader, E-mail: csb69@cam.ac.uk  and Hannah Mannering, Disease Model Core Manager, E-mail: htw29@cam.ac.uk 

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 March 2031 in the first instance and is aimed at Research Associates who want to further their practical skills and investigate novel paradigms without the pressure of grant funding applications 

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check, a health assessment and a security check. 

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the apply button above. 

Applicants must have a PhD. 

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter, CV  and research proposal of no more than 3 pages in length in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. 

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager. 

**Research Associate (SRA) level**; appointment as an SRA will require evidence of an independent research reputation. Due to the levels of skills and experience required we anticipate making an appointment either on the RA scale or towards the bottom of the SRA scale. 

Approval to Senior Research Associate is subject to Faculty Board approval. 

Date of interview: To be confirmed 

Please quote reference RG41832 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. 

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. 

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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