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- Tasks: Join our team to explore how daytime light affects sleep and circadian rhythms.
- Company: Leading research institution focused on innovative neuroscience.
- Benefits: Market-leading pension, health services, generous leave, and discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding sleep biology with cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: Experience in rodent neurophysiology or strong interest in sleep/circadian biology.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; inclusive employer welcoming diverse applicants.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
Research Associate in circadian and sleep biology
We seek two ambitious and self‑motivated laboratory‑based Research Associates to join our team defining the impact of daytime light on sleep and circadian rhythms. In contrast to the well‑defined disruptive effects of evening and night‑time light, the potential beneficial effects of brighter daytime light on sleep and rhythmicity are little understood. We have developed a new laboratory model species, the diurnal murid rodent Rhabdomys pumillio, to address this problem and are funded via a Wellcome Trust Discovery Award to exploit this opportunity to determine how bright daytime light enhances circadian amplitude and reduces sensitivity to light at night. The successful candidates will apply advanced neuroscience techniques to define the links between daytime light and the circadian clock/sleep at molecular, circuit, and systems levels. We are particularly interested in applicants with expertise in rodent in‑vivo neurophysiology or an established interest in sleep or circadian biology. These full‑time positions are available from January 2026 for a period of at least 3 years.
What you will get in return
- Fantastic market‑leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services, including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies. Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk. Any CVs submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Name: Robert Lucas
Email: Robert.Lucas@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
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Research Associate - Experimental Neuroscience employer: Manchester University
Contact Detail:
Manchester University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Experimental Neuroscience
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the neuroscience field, especially those who might know about circadian and sleep biology. A friendly chat can lead to insider info on job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the latest research on daytime light and its effects on sleep. Show us you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field – it’ll set you apart from the crowd!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Experimental Neuroscience
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in rodent in-vivo neurophysiology or any relevant expertise in sleep and circadian biology. We want to see how your skills align with our research goals!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for experimental neuroscience shine through! Share why you're excited about the impact of daytime light on sleep and circadian rhythms. We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about their field.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your previous research experiences and how they relate to the role. We appreciate clarity as it makes it easier for us to see your potential!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester University
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in circadian and sleep biology. Familiarise yourself with key studies related to daytime light and its effects on sleep patterns. This will not only show your passion for the field but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with rodent in-vivo neurophysiology or any relevant techniques you've mastered. Prepare specific examples of how you've applied these skills in past projects, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and problem-solving abilities.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab's current projects and future directions. This shows your genuine interest in their work and helps you assess if the team is the right fit for you. Questions about the impact of their research on real-world applications can be particularly engaging.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration
Highlight your ability to work well in a team, especially in a laboratory setting. Share examples of successful collaborations and how you’ve contributed to group projects. This is crucial, as the role involves working closely with others to achieve common goals.