At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on brain decision-making using Drosophila and advanced imaging techniques.
- Company: Join the innovative Rezaval Lab at the University of Birmingham.
- Benefits: Three-year position with potential extension, international collaboration, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic, competitive environment with opportunities for publication and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience and shape your own research projects.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in Life Sciences or related fields, with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
The Rezaval Lab at the University of Birmingham is recruiting three postdoctoral researchers to join a Wellcome Trust funded programme, “Decoding Competition in the Brain”, aimed at uncovering how the brain resolves behavioural conflicts. Animals constantly face situations in which crucial behaviours cannot be executed simultaneously, such as feeding versus escaping danger. We investigate how conflicting motivations are evaluated, prioritised, and transformed into action. Using Drosophila, we will uncover mechanisms linking molecules, synapses, circuits, and behaviour, revealing general principles of decision-making.
We will test how the presence of rivals (competitive pressure) biases these processes, how prior social experience reshapes neural circuits, and whether shared principles govern behavioural choice across sexes. Successful candidates will contribute to a multidisciplinary programme combining in vivo two photon calcium imaging, connectomics, quantitative behavioural tracking, optogenetics, neural circuit dissection, single cell transcriptomics, and computational analysis to identify mechanisms that link molecules, synapses, cells, and neural circuits to behaviour, and to uncover fundamental principles underlying decision-making. Projects are flexible and can be shaped by the candidate’s interests, with scope for independent directions. Positions are available for three years, with potential extension, and offer strong opportunities for international collaboration and career development.
Main Duties
- Conduct experiments, troubleshoot, and analyse data under Prof. Rezaval’s supervision to deliver on this Wellcome Trust research goals
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
Person Specification
- First degree in Life Sciences/Biological Sciences/Genetics/Cell Biology/Neuroscience/Biochemistry or related disciplines, and either a PhD (or near to completion) or equivalent research experience in one of such related disciplines
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Willingness to work in an international, competitive research environment
- Fluency in relevant techniques or methods, and ability to contribute to developing new ones, within the disciplines mentioned above (for example, behaviour, live calcium imaging, genetics, confocal, 2P microscopy, basic programming and/or molecular biology)
- Ability to manage resources efficiently and coordinate work with others
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
- Experience working with Drosophila, live calcium imaging, molecular biology, Matlab/Python programming and/or behaviour
- A good publication record in neuroscience.
Postdoctoral Research Fellow employer: European Drosophila Society
The Rezaval Lab at the University of Birmingham offers an exceptional environment for postdoctoral researchers, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that prioritises scientific discovery and personal growth. With access to cutting-edge technologies and a multidisciplinary approach, employees are encouraged to shape their research projects according to their interests, while benefiting from strong international collaboration opportunities and career development support. This role not only promises meaningful contributions to understanding brain function but also provides a vibrant academic community in a prestigious institution.
Contact Detail:
European Drosophila Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Fellow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current and former researchers in the Rezaval Lab or similar fields. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a mini-presentation or a poster about your previous research. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and shows your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings. Reach out directly to the lab with your CV and a brief note about your interest in their work. It shows initiative and could set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep an eye on our website! We regularly update it with new opportunities and resources that can help you land that postdoc position. Plus, applying through us gives you a better chance of being noticed!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in neuroscience and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our research goals!
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t hold back on showcasing your analytical capabilities and any experience you have with Drosophila or live calcium imaging. We’re looking for candidates who can clearly communicate complex information, so make it easy for us to see your strengths.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless necessary. Remember, we want to understand your qualifications without getting lost in the details!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at European Drosophila Society
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the Rezaval Lab's research focus. Familiarise yourself with the methodologies mentioned, like two-photon calcium imaging and connectomics. Being able to discuss how your past experiences align with their work will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your technical skills, especially around Drosophila research and molecular biology techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of relevant programming languages like Matlab or Python, and be ready to explain how you've used these tools in your previous projects.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working in a multidisciplinary team, highlight your experience in collaborative projects. Share examples of how you’ve successfully worked with others, managed resources, and contributed to joint research efforts. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in an international and competitive environment.
✨Have Your Own Ideas Ready
The job description mentions flexibility in shaping projects based on your interests. Think about potential research objectives or proposals you could bring to the table. This shows initiative and a proactive approach, which can set you apart from other candidates.
