Postdoctoral Scientist

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom (On-site)

£42,694 per annum

Overall purpose: To work within the group of Dr Joergen Kornfeld at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at understanding how behaviours are encoded in the brain's synaptic networks. Specifically, to develop novel approaches for large-scale connectomics and to apply them to map and analyse the synaptic connections (connectome) within vertebrate and invertebrate brains. The ultimate goal is to link these synaptic networks to specific behavioural outputs, providing mechanistic insights into how learned behaviours are maintained and accessed. The post is part of a collaboration between the Kornfeld and Jefferis groups at the LMB, and the project will be jointly supervised by Dr Joergen Kornfeld and Dr Greg Jefferis.

Main Duties:

• To undertake research aimed at mapping and analysing the synaptic connections that underpin complex behaviours.
• To identify, develop, and apply a broad range of experimental techniques, including high-resolution 3D electron microscopy and advanced data analysis methods, to pursue the research objectives.
• To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external conferences and meetings.
• To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field of connectomics and memory storage.
• To draft scientific papers and contribute to the overall preparation of research findings for publication.
• To contribute to the LMB’s mission in public engagement, and the translation of research findings into advancements in neuroscience and healthcare.
• To assist in the training of PhD students and other members of the LMB, ensuring knowledge transfer and collaboration within the group.

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 contribution to determining the project’s direction within its three-year timeframe.
• To plan your own research objectives on an annual basis and manage your experimental work effectively, coordinating closely with your Supervisor.
• To work with limited supervision, identifying, developing, modifying, and applying the necessary techniques to achieve the research goals.
• To introduce and apply new experimental techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to show creativity and initiative in developing novel approaches where required.
• To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good scientific practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.
• To contribute to the smooth operation of the group by effectively managing resources, training others, and taking responsibility for the use and maintenance of communal facilities.
• To enhance your research and professional skills through a tailored development programme designed to advance your career.

Working Relationships: You will report to Dr Joergen Kornfeld and Dr Greg Jefferis, and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff, and students both within your group and across the LMB. Additionally, you will engage with external collaborators as necessary to advance the research goals.

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 Specification: These should include a PhD in neuroscience, neurobiology, or a related field, or due to complete PhD within 6 months. Technical skills and expertise: Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project. Particularly useful would be experience of high-resolution 3D electron microscopy and expansion microscopy, including tissue preparation, imaging, and data acquisition. Experience with analysing large-scale imaging datasets, particularly in the context of connectomics or EM mapping, would be highly valuable. Additionally, proficiency in data analysis software and tools used to process and interpret microscopy data is essential. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are also essential, along with a proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Experience in connectomics, neuroanatomy, or data analysis would be highly advantageous. Track record of research: This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers. Other relevant evidence of: Commitment. Originality. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral. Working with others.

Corporate/Local responsibilities and 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.

About Us: UKRI - UK Research and Innovation UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation. Supporting some of the world’s most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.

How we support EDI in the workforce: At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community.

Disability Confident Employer: As users of the disability confident scheme, any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria, will be shortlisted for interview. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

About the Team: The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably X-ray crystallography of proteins, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years. There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute. Our state-of-the-art laboratory provides an unsurpassed environment for both young and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation. The LMB is a great place to work and progress your career, be it in scientific research or the support functions. The LMB is a unique working environment where our researchers are rewarded by world class innovation and collaboration opportunities that the LMB name brings. The LMB is an excellent place to develop yourself further and a range of training & development opportunities will be available to you, including professional registration with the Science Council.