At a Glance
- Tasks: Support groundbreaking research on mRNA regulation in neuronal functions using zebrafish and cell cultures.
- Company: Join the UK's 2nd largest Neuroscience school with a vibrant research community.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract, professional development days, and potential for contract renewal.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience while gaining hands-on lab experience.
- Qualifications: Master’s in Neuroscience or related field and essential wet-lab research experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The School of Neuroscience is the UK’s 2nd largest Neuroscience school with over 500 researchers and 200 PhD students. It is one of three schools at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience. We are ranked 4th in the world for the total number of publications in neuroscience, 4th for the number of publication outputs in top 5% citations in neuroscience, and 4th for top 5% citations in neurology. CDN is one of four departments in the School of Neuroscience at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience and is located at Guy’s campus. Researchers have access to support facilities in genotyping, molecular biology and Drosophila work. CDN has a close partnership with the Medical Research Council (MRC) and CDN researchers, together with clinical researchers from King’s, make up the MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
This post consists of providing support on ARUK-funded research investigating the role of local regulation of mRNAs in neuronal and synaptic functions in healthy and neurodegenerative brains, using zebrafish and mammalian cell culture models. The candidate should hold a Master’s degree in Neuroscience or a related biological science, and previous wet-lab research experience is essential. The candidate will gain experience in a range of wet-lab techniques using zebrafish embryos and adult brain tissue to investigate how RNA is locally regulated in neurites, how this is disrupted in neurodegeneration, and mechanisms that promote synapse resilience and healthy nervous system ageing. Proactive and motivated, with strong organisational skills and the ability to identify technical problems and implement effective solutions. This is a full-time post (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract for 1 year, with the potential to renew each year for up to 3 years or until grant funding end date. Research staff at King’s are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development.
To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:
- Essential criteria
- Master’s degree in Neuroscience or a related biological science
- Wet-lab research experience
- Strong knowledge of brain development, cell biology and neurodegeneration
- Skills in using animal models or cells in culture
- Proactive and motivated, with strong organizational skills, to complete tasks efficiently where possible
- Ability to identify technical problems and implement effective solutions
- Experience using data analysis tools (e.g. Image/JFiJi)
- Microscopy skills
- Desirable criteria
- Experience in zebrafish biology
- Experience in embryo injections
- Skills in proteomics
- Experience using AI powered tools such as AlphaFold
Research Assistant – Strand, London, WC2R 2LS employer: Recruit4Mum
The School of Neuroscience at King's College London offers an exceptional work environment for Research Assistants, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration among over 500 researchers and 200 PhD students. Located in the vibrant Strand area, employees benefit from access to cutting-edge facilities and strong partnerships with leading research institutions, alongside generous professional development opportunities that support career growth in the dynamic field of neuroscience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant – Strand, London, WC2R 2LS
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former researchers at the School of Neuroscience. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your wet-lab techniques and any relevant neuroscience topics. We want to show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase our organisational skills! During interviews, share examples of how we’ve tackled technical problems in the lab. This will highlight our proactive nature and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can tailor our submission to match the specific criteria outlined in the job description.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant – Strand, London, WC2R 2LS
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your Master’s degree in Neuroscience and any relevant wet-lab experience. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your knowledge of brain development and neurodegeneration!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about neuroscience and how your previous experiences make you a great fit for our research team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention any specific techniques or tools you’ve used, like microscopy or data analysis software. If you have experience with zebrafish or AI-powered tools, let us know! We’re keen on candidates who can hit the ground running.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruit4Mum
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of brain development, cell biology, and neurodegeneration. Be ready to discuss your wet-lab experience in detail, especially any techniques you've used with zebrafish or mammalian cell cultures.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've identified technical problems in the lab and implemented effective solutions. This role values proactive candidates, so showcasing your ability to tackle challenges will set you apart.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools
Get comfortable with data analysis tools like ImageJ/Fiji and any microscopy skills you have. If you have experience with AI-powered tools like AlphaFold, be sure to mention it, as it could give you an edge.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research being conducted at the Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their ongoing projects.
