Research Assistant

Hours: Full time hours considered up to a maximum of 1 FTE/ 36.5 hours per week.

Requests for flexible working options will be considered (subject to business need).

Contract Type: Fixed term for 12 months

See current salary scales.

Applications must be received by midnight of the closing date.

Expected Interview date: To Be Confirmed. Online or In Person.

Expected start date: 01.09.2026

About the role

In the Baden lab, we aim to understand how the retina and the brain process visual information in relation to the ecology of different animals. As a Research Assistant, you will contribute to understanding how  interpretation of the visual scene can be reprogrammed, using frog metamorphosis as a model system. Specifically, you will characterise behavioural changes during development by tracking freely moving animals and map underlying visual circuits using transgenics, tracings, and microscopy. You will also assist in maintaining the animal colony, as well as designing plasmids and generating transgenic animals. You will have the opportunity to analyse and present your findings within a dynamic and collaborative research environment.. The position is offered for one year, with the possibility of extension.

About you

We are seeking a candidate with an undergraduate degree in a  or a relevant scientific discipline, and ideally, some prior experience with coding (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or R). You should also have experience conducting scientific experiments with precision and attention to detail, or a strong motivation to develop these skills. You will be able to work effectively as part of a team, communicate your findings and ideas clearly, and contribute to regular progress meetings and reports. You should also be capable of managing your own workload and demonstrating initiative in progressing your project, as well as overcoming challenges as they arise. This  position is ideal for applicants wanting to gain research experience before applying to Neuroscience graduate programs.

About our School

Please find further information regarding the School of Life Sciences on our website.

The School of Life Sciences is proud to hold a Silver Athena Swann Award. 

Why work here

Find out more about our reward and benefits package.

Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion

Further Key Information

Please contact Michael Forsthofer (Michael.forsthofer@sussex.ac.uk) for informal enquiries.

The University is committed to equality and valuing diversity, and applications are particularly welcomed from women and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine and Mathematics (STEMM) at Sussex.

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Eligibility

The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK.

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