Research Assistant/Associate in Neural Circuits for Perceptual Interference

Company description:

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

Salary:

Research Assistant: £32,546 to £34,132 per annum

Research Associate: £35,116 to £37,174 per annum

Job description:

The Role

We are seeking a post-doctoral Research Assistant or Research Associate on an MRC (UK) funded project on Neuronal Circuits for Perceptual Inference, based at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK (lead supervisor Dr Yuki Kikuchi). Our laboratory focuses on the neurobiological basis of auditory cognition and memory, with the potential to inform new treatments and therapeutic interventions for nervous system disorders. We develop programs to link with clinical and neurosurgical patient work, which strongly aligns with the vision of Newcastle University and Newcastle University Centres of Research Excellence (NUCoREs).

You will focus on understanding the neurobiology of fronto-temporal brain regions at cortical laminar and neuronal circuit levels that support auditory cognition and perceptual inference. The studies will also inform on the connectivity and circuit level of understanding between frontal and temporal lobe regions using innovative approaches being used by the clinical group in parallel with neurosurgical patients in Iowa. Our goal is to advance medical science by providing insights on the neural mechanisms underlying auditory cognition and the associated networks understanding human disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, mood disorders and others, where perceptual inference is increasingly hypothesised as a core deficit.

The research will involve cutting-edge laminar neurophysiology and laminar fMRI studies of prefrontal, auditory, and hippocampal circuits in awake, behaving nonhuman primates.

You will hold a PhD in neurobiology, neuroscience, or a related field, with a strong publication record. Experience in behavioural, electrophysiological methods and/or functional MRI in awake nonhuman primates is highly desirable. We are looking for a strong team player with a proven ability to drive independent research while also contributing effectively to collaborative projects.

This is a full-time, fixed-term position starting immediately for a duration of 9 months.

To apply, please complete an online application and upload a plain text copy of your CV and covering letter only. In your covering letter, you should evidence how you meet or exceed the essential and desirable requirements for the role. Please note, any other ‘Additional Document' you upload may not be received by the reviewing panel.

For informal enquiries contact: Dr Yuki Kikuchi yukiko.kikuchi@ncl.ac.uk

Find out more about our Laboratory of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience, please click here

Find out more about the Faculty of Medical Sciences, please click here

Find out more about our Research Institutes, please click here

As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.

Please note that if you are successful to this role, you will require a DBS before you can commence in the role.

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