Postdoctoral Scientist | Neurobiology | Dr Greg Jefferis | LMB 3026

UKRI International; Cambridge; Remote; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The UKRI International MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) in Cambridge seeks a Postdoctoral Scientist to work on molecular connectomics in Drosophila under Dr Greg Jefferis. Map neuronal gene and protein expression onto reference electron microscopy connectomes and investigate development and organization of sexually dimorphic circuits.

You will develop and apply diverse techniques, present at seminars, draft papers, and contribute to lab-wide discussions and public science outreach as

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant subject (preferably neurobiology) or due to complete PhD within 6 months.
• Experience in neural development, microscopy, image analysis and ML for neural data.

Responsibilities

• Undertake research on the development and function of neural circuits in Drosophila.
• Identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue research objectives.
• Present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
• Contribute to group discussions and to the preparation of publications.
• Contribute to public engagement and translation of findings into healthcare improvements.
• Assist in training PhD students and other group members.

Skills

Neural development

Image analysis

Machine learning for neural data

Communication

Education

PhD in neurobiology

Tools

Microscopy

Software development

Job description

£42,694 per annum

Overall purpose:

To work within the group of Dr Greg Jefferis at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme on molecular connectomics in Drosophila. The programme will develop methods to map neuronal gene and protein expression onto reference electron microscopy connectomes. These methods will then be used to investigate questions in the development and organisation of sexually dimorphic circuits.

Main duties:

• To undertake research aimed on the development and function of neural circuits in Drosophila.
• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
• To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
• To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field.
• To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
• To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
• To assist in the training of PhD students and other members of the LMB.

Key responsibilities:

Within the overall direction of the programme, the group, the remit of the project and in discussion with the Group Leader, you will make a significant input into determining the direction of the project within a three-year lifespan.

To plan your own work and objectives on a 12-month basis and manage your experimental work within the project along with your Supervisor.

To work with limited supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply the necessary techniques to achieve the goals of the project.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.

To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, training of others and taking responsibility for use of communal facilities.

To enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.

Working relationships:

You will report to Dr Greg Jefferis and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary.

Additional information:

This is a three-year training and development position for a Postdoctoral Scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies, is moving into a new research discipline or has limited experience of key transferable skills. We support Postdoctoral Scientists with a range of formal and on-the-job training, including:

• MRC training courses.
• External training and personal development courses.
• One-to-one training with your Supervisor and other Scientists.

You will commit to undertaking the following:

• Developing and following a personal development plan.
• Attending training courses.
• Identifying additional training which will support you to develop your career.

Person requirements

Academic qualifications:

These should include a PhD in a relevant subject (preferably neurobiology) or due to complete PhD within 6 months.

Technical skills and expertise:

• Neural development
• Microscopy
• Image analysis
• Software development
• Machine learning for neural data analysis

It would be particularly beneficial if the candidate had experience with the architecture of olfactory/descending to motor circuits.

Track record of research:

This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of:

• Commitment.
• Originality.
• Ability to communicate.
• Working with others.

Additional information:

Applicants are expected to submit a full CV and covering letter.

Corporate/Local responsibilities & requirements

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI:

• Code of Conduct
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
• Health and Safety policy
• Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.