Postdoctoral Research Associate in Circuit/Systems Neuroscience - Neural Circuits for Spatial Orientation (Fixed Term)

Department/Location: Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Dr. Sepiedeh Keshavarzi's lab at the University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience (https://www.pdn.cam.ac.uk/). The lab's research, funded by the Wellcome Trust, focuses on the organization and function of neural circuits underlying spatial orientation and self-motion perception.

Project Overview 

This project aims to explore how interactions between the thalamus and retrosplenial cortex influence orientation computations and to determine the role of distinct thalamocortical circuits in behaviour. The successful candidate will develop novel behavioural tasks to assess spatial orientation in mice, record neural activity using electrophysiology (Neuropixels) and/or calcium imaging (two-photon imaging and miniscope), manipulate specific circuits and cell types with optogenetics and chemogenetics, and perform comprehensive data analysis. 

For more information about the lab's research, please visit Keshavarzi Lab. 

Key Experience and Competencies 

We seek a researcher with a strong background in circuit/systems neuroscience. Applicants should hold (or be near completion of) a Ph.D. in Neuroscience or a related field.

Essential Qualifications: 

• Experimental expertise in either in vivo electrophysiology (single-unit recording/patch clamp) or in vivo calcium imaging (two-photon/miniscope imaging).
• Proficiency in programming, particularly in Python or Matlab, and in data analysis.

Desirable Skills:

• Expertise in developing quantitative behavioral tasks for rodents.
• Expertise in building and controlling custom experimental setups.
• A solid track record of research achievements and publications.

Research Environment and Training 

We are a welcoming and inclusive group, committed to providing mentorship and support for the career development of our lab members. The postdoctoral fellow will join a multidisciplinary research environment, with regular interactions with other neuroscience groups within the department. The Department's seminars, along with events hosted by the Cambridge Neuroscience Network, will offer excellent opportunities for networking and scientific discourse. 

Training opportunities will be provided in experimental and computational techniques new to the applicant, including support for attending international workshops and courses. Additionally, the position offers opportunities for collaboration with engineers and computational neuroscientists. 

How to Apply 

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

Please submit your CV and a cover letter addressing the following points: 

• Your motivation for joining the lab.
• How your research skills align with the job description.
• Your research ambitions and career goals.

Please also provide the contact details of two referees.

The position is available from January 2025 onwards for an initial term of three years, with the possibility of extension.

For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Sepiedeh Keshavarzi at sk2244@cam.ac.uk.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position may close early once filled. 

To learn more about this position and what the University offers please see the Further Particulars. 

Please quote reference PM36807 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 Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience particularly encourages women and candidates from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background to apply for this vacancy. 

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

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