Senior Research Associate in Neuroscience

The role

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral research associate to join our team investigating the neurobiological basis for psychiatric disorders. Recent advances in understanding the genetic bases of risk for schizophrenia and other disorders provide tantalizing clues to underlying neurobiological disruptions and we will test specific hypotheses related to synaptic function and adaptive behaviour that are core features of psychiatric disorders. The role will involve the use of 2-photon imaging in rodents to study how genes associated with risk for schizophrenia affect neuronal representations of memory.

This is a highly collaborative project integrating expertise in synaptic physiology (Bristol), genetics (Cardiff) and rodent behaviour (Bristol) as well as utilizing access to human brain tissue (Bristol epilepsy surgery teams) and the expertise in genetic manipulation of human neurons (UCL). The team science approach will require individuals who think creatively and flourish in collaborative environments.

The successful candidate should have a PhD in a relevant discipline. Experience in rodent behaviour and recording and analysing neuronal activity in vivo is essential and a good understanding of synaptic physiology and the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders is highly desirable.

The role is part of a 5 year project that includes multiple posts within the team and is supported by the Medical Research Council.

The role is fixed term for 10 months as maternity cover.

What will you be doing?

• Using experiment techniques such as 2-photon microscopy and virtual reality environments
• Analyse large datasets using appropriate analytical approaches.
• Present data at meetings and to the research group.
• Collaborate across multiple teams.
• Update stakeholders regularly with progress and options for discussion.
• Develop research ideas, write papers and explore independent funding options.

You should apply if

You have:

• A background in neuroscience and a passion for understanding the neurobiological basis of psychiatric disorders.
• Expertise in rodent behaviour and recording and analysing neuronal activity in vivo.
• Experience with data handling and analysis.
• A desire to work as part of a collaborative research team.

Additional information

For informal queries about the the role, please contact:

Jack Mellor, jack.mellor@bristol.ac.uk

Contract type: Fixed Term (Cover position)

Work pattern: Full time

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 11/09/2024

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