Postdoctoral Scientist | Neurobiology | LMB 3011

The Methodist Church in Britain; England; Vor Ort; GBP 35.000 - 48.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology invites applications for a three-year training and development position in the Kornfeld and Jefferis groups. The project focuses on mapping synaptic connections and developing large-scale connectomics methods to understand how learned behaviours are stored in brain networks.

The role is for researchers who have recently completed a doctorate or are moving into a new discipline.

Qualifikationen

• PhD in neuroscience or a related field, or due within 6 months.
• Proven track record in research and publications.
• Experience with high-resolution microscopy is desirable.

Aufgaben

• Map and analyse synaptic connections underpinning behaviours.
• Plan annual objectives and coordinate with the supervisor.
• Develop and apply techniques including 3D electron microscopy and data analysis.
• Work with limited supervision and introduce new techniques as needed.
• Present scientific work at seminars and external conferences.
• Draft papers and prepare findings for publication.
• Train PhD students and other laboratory members.
• Contribute to public engagement and translation of findings.

Kenntnisse

Data analysis

Analytical thinking

Independent work

Team collaboration

Excellent communication

Ausbildung

PhD in neuroscience or related field

Tools

Image analysis tools

Jobbeschreibung

This three-year post sits in the Kornfeld and Jefferis groups at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, studying how learned behaviours are held in brain synaptic networks. The core work is developing large-scale connectomics methods and mapping synaptic connections in vertebrate and invertebrate brains. It is a training and development role for those who have recently completed a doctorate or are moving into a new discipline. A PhD in neuroscience or a related field, or one due within six months, is required.

What the job involves

• Undertake research mapping and analysing the synaptic connections that underpin complex behaviours
• Plan annual research objectives and manage experimental work, coordinating with the supervisor
• Develop, modify and apply experimental techniques, including high-resolution 3D electron microscopy and advanced data analysis
• Work with limited supervision, introducing new techniques and novel approaches where required
• Help determine project direction over the three-year timeframe, in discussion with the Group Leader
• Present scientific work at laboratory seminars and external conferences
• Contribute to laboratory-wide discussion on connectomics and memory storage
• Draft scientific papers and prepare research findings for publication
• Carry out research in line with good scientific practice and local policies and legal requirements
• Manage resources, take responsibility for communal facilities and train others
• Assist in training PhD students and other laboratory members
• Contribute to public engagement and to translating findings into advances in neuroscience and healthcare

Qualifications

• PhD in neuroscience, neurobiology or a related field, or due to complete within 6 months

Experience

• Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project
• Track record of research, including achievements and contributions to published papers

Skills & knowledge

• Proficiency in data analysis software and tools used to process and interpret microscopy data
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Checks & eligibility

• Security screening or vetting at the level required for the role

Other

• Evidence of commitment, originality and working with others

Nice to have

• Experience of high-resolution 3D electron microscopy and expansion microscopy, including tissue preparation, imaging and data acquisition
• Experience analysing large-scale imaging datasets, particularly in connectomics or EM mapping
• Experience in connectomics, neuroanatomy or data analysis

What’s offered

• Three-year training and development position
• Formal MRC training courses
• External training and personal development courses
• One-to-one training with the supervisor and other scientists
• Tailored development programme to advance your career