At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team to explore complex brain functions using innovative molecular techniques.
- Company: MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, a world-class research institute in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 40.5 days holiday, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Three-year position with excellent career growth and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience while working with top scientists in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in neuroscience or related field, or equivalent experience.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Position: Post-doctoral Position
Deadline: 9 October 2025
City: Cambridge
Country: United Kingdom
Institution: MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Department:
Description:
Postdoctoral Scientist
Salary £41,344 per annum
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
The Molecular Brain Mapping research group at the MRC-LMB in Cambridge, UK, aims to solve fundamental questions of biological computation — particularly for complex mammalian brains. Our research maintains a strong focus on the brain’s hardware components: from circuits to synapses and molecular nano-anatomy.
In the group, we employ the new paradigm of “molecular connectomics.” We use expansion microscopy and other light microscopy tools to combine classical morphological neuron segmentation (albeit using light microscopy, not electron microscopy) with the vast toolboxes of molecular biology — from immunostainings to viral neuron barcoding and beyond. This adds previously inaccessible dimensions to brain mapping at synaptic resolution.
We are seeking a scientist excited about tackling long-standing problems in neuroscience by designing and acquiring “molecular connectomics” datasets with an unprecedented abundance of information. You will be using expansion microscopy as well as develop and apply a variety of molecular tools to integrate the readout of multiple information channels — from neuron morphology to protein immunostainings, viral barcoding, synaptic activity, and beyond. You will also develop new technologies that support this goal and extend our capabilities to integrate additional information channels. Finally, you will apply this technology in a mammalian behavioural context. The candidate with either have a PhD in neuroscience, molecular biology, biotechnology or a related field, or due to complete within 6 months, or evidence of equivalent experience and qualifications.
Informal enquiries can be sent to the Neurobiology Divisional Administrator, skumari@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.
This is a three-year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills. Working with our world class scientists you will be working in an Institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high-quality research.
The LMB has a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. We have a staff restaurant with roof terrace and access to a Campus nursery and sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days per annum (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications.
The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.
This role qualifies for endorsement by UKRI for a UK Global Talent Visa, for which the successful applicant is likely to be eligible to apply. Immigration costs (visa and health surcharge) can be reclaimed from UKRI after taking up the post (terms and conditions apply).
Closing date: 09/10/2025
It is anticipated that interviews will take place in October 2025.
Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.
We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.
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Postdoctoral Scientist – Neurobiology – Dr Sven Truckenbrodt – LMB 2698 employer: MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Contact Detail:
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Scientist – Neurobiology – Dr Sven Truckenbrodt – LMB 2698
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their research. Familiarise yourself with their projects on molecular connectomics and think about how your skills can contribute. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your research experience and how it aligns with their goals. We want to hear your passion for neuroscience and how you can tackle those long-standing problems.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Scientist – Neurobiology – Dr Sven Truckenbrodt – LMB 2698
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Postdoctoral Scientist role. Highlight your relevant experience in neuroscience, molecular biology, or biotechnology, and show us how your skills align with our research focus on molecular connectomics.
Show Your Passion: We want to see your enthusiasm for tackling complex problems in neuroscience! In your application, share specific examples of projects or research that excite you and how they relate to the work we do at the MRC-LMB.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that your application is processed correctly and gives you the best chance of being considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in neurobiology and molecular connectomics. Familiarise yourself with Dr Sven Truckenbrodt's work and the specific projects at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Prepare Your Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions about the research group’s current projects, future directions, and the technologies they use. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your previous research experiences, especially those related to molecular biology and microscopy techniques. Highlight any relevant skills or projects that align with the job description, such as your experience with immunostaining or viral barcoding.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
The MRC-LMB values a collaborative working culture, so be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you’ve successfully worked with others in a lab setting, and how you can contribute to the team dynamic at the institute.