At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on Drosophila to explore neurobiological behaviours in a collaborative team.
- Company: Join Northumbria University, a top-ranked research institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and excellent pension schemes.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract until September 2031 with opportunities for international collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in Neuroscience or related fields; hands-on lab experience preferred.
Working as part of multi-disciplinary teams, you will support the Principal Investigator, Dr Clara Ferreira, in delivery of research activity on the BBSRC-funded project SoBe SOcial modulation of defence BEhaviours, which uses Drosophila melanogaster to uncover the neurobiological basis of the 'safety in numbers' effect. You will lead a strand of the project's research programme, combining behavioural, neurogenetic and in vivo imaging approaches, with the opportunity to train in specialist imaging techniques alongside an international collaborating laboratory. You will contribute your own ideas to the wider project, have the opportunity to co-supervise students within the team, where applicable, and contribute to the laboratory's development. Please note this is a fixed term contract up to September 2031.
ABOUT THE TEAM
This Research Project is being delivered within the School of Geography and Natural Sciences, part of the Faculty of Science and Environment. You will join Assistant Professor Clara Ferreira's research group, funded by a BBSRC New Investigator award, joining two PhD students and an RA, and working in close collaboration with Associate Professor Wolf Huetteroth's fly research group.
ABOUT YOU
Applicants should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in Neuroscience or related discipline. We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds (including those with prior experience in biological or biomedical fields such as neuroscience, genetics, evolution, ecology, ethology, computational/quantitative biology or invertebrate biology) who are keen to apply their skills to this system, together with experience in one or more of: optogenetics, functional imaging, molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, behavioural analysis or computational modelling. This is a hands-on, lab-based role involving behavioural experiments, the generation and imaging of genetically manipulated flies, including microdissection/surgical preparation for functional imaging, for which full training will be provided, and reasonable adjustments will be considered where needed.
If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dr Clara Ferreira. To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply Now'. Your application should include a covering letter and a CV. We welcome applications from the UK and across the world.
ABOUT US
Join Northumbria University, a research-intensive institution unlocking potential and changing lives locally and globally. Named Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in 2025, we rank top 25 in the UK for research power. Discover more about us. With over 37,000 students from 140+ countries, we offer world-leading research, award-winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience. We empower our exceptional staff, promoting a positive work-life balance and offering great benefits, including excellent pension schemes, flexible working, generous holiday entitlement and more. Our Northumbria Values, co-created by our team, define who we are: Academic Excellence, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Ambition. Our Behaviours shape our work culture: We listen and learn, support one another, respect everyone, trust each other, and are bold. Based in Newcastle upon Tyne and London, we are an on-campus organisation and offer flexible hours and location where the role allows. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusivity, holding numerous awards for gender and race equality, disability confidence, and research excellence. We also hold the HR Excellence in Research award for implementing the concordat supporting the career Development of Researchers and are members of the Euraxess initiative to deliver information and support to professional researchers. The University has implemented a range of flexible working arrangements, and we are happy to explore candidate requirements as part of the recruitment process. Apply now and join a community committed to transforming society and the economy.
Research Fellow in BioSciences - Newcastle upon Tyne in Wingate employer: Northumbria University Newcastle
Northumbria University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises academic excellence and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive training opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and generous benefits, including excellent pension schemes and holiday entitlement. Located in the dynamic city of Newcastle upon Tyne, our institution fosters collaboration and supports a diverse community, making it an ideal place for researchers to thrive and contribute to impactful projects.
Contact Details:
Northumbria University Newcastle Recruitment Team
