At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research in human systems neuroscience and develop innovative neural recording techniques.
- Company: SWC, a pioneering institute in neuroscience collaboration and innovation.
- Benefits: Generous funding, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities for international partnerships.
- Other info: Encouraging culture of bold research and collaboration, welcoming diverse applicants.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience by bridging animal and human research.
- Qualifications: PhD in neuroscience, strong track record in systems neuroscience, and expertise in neural recording.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
SWC is looking for a Group Leader to advance human systems neuroscience. We are seeking an exceptional scientist to lead a transformative initiative in human systems neuroscience. This is a unique opportunity to translate our understanding of neural computation - from circuit-level mechanisms to computational principles - into the human brain, through the establishment of cutting-edge human neural recording capabilities with collaborators in London and abroad.
You will lead an ambitious research program that translates circuit-level understanding from animal models to humans through advanced neural recording techniques, particularly single-unit recordings. You will spearhead collaborative infrastructure development linking SWC with University College London (UCL), UCL Hospital (UCLH), Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), and the Francis Crick Institute, and drive international partnerships to advance next-generation technologies for human neural recording.
SWC group leaders receive generous core funds for five years (renewable) and are supported by state-of-the-art facilities including prototyping and fabrication, high-throughput whole brain imaging, virology, histology and in-house high-performance computing facilities, accommodated in a purpose-designed building. Close interaction with the Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, located within the Centre, enables collaborations in data analysis, computational modelling, machine learning and theory. SWC also benefits from interaction with the wider UCL Neuroscience community, which brings together more than 450 principal investigators, and clinical partners at UCLH and GOSH.
Who we’re looking for
We are looking for an outstanding scientist with:
- A strong track record in systems neuroscience with a background in the mechanistic understanding of neural circuits and computation.
- Proven expertise in human neural recording techniques, particularly single-unit recordings.
- Vision and leadership to establish innovative research infrastructure across multiple institutions.
- Commitment to collaborative science and bridging basic and clinical neuroscience communities.
Candidates need to have a PhD in neuroscience or a cognate area and substantial postdoctoral research experience at the time of application. Experience in establishing clinical research infrastructure/collaborations or technology development is highly desirable. A shared goal of SWC group leaders is to generate experimentally testable theories of brain function in a culture that encourages bold research, innovation, and collaboration. We particularly welcome female applicants and those from an ethnic minority, as they are under-represented within SWC at this level.
How to apply
Please visit UCL Jobs and search for vacancy reference number: B and click 'Apply Now.' Please upload the following to your application:
- Your CV
- A cover letter explaining your interest in joining SWC and your suitability for this position.
- A research proposal outlining your research that bridges human and animal neuroscience.
- The names and contact details of three referees.
The full job description and person specification can be downloaded from our website. Apply by 31st March 2026. All candidates will be notified of the outcome of their application. Interviews are expected to be held in May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to deliver a presentation on their research to members of the UCL neuroscience community at SWC, followed by a chalk talk with a search committee.
Contact us
For further enquiries, please contact the Chair of the Search Committee, Professor Tom Mrsic-Flogel. Any other queries relating to the vacancy or how to apply should be directed to the SWC HR team.
Group Leader in London employer: Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour
SWC is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Group Leaders to lead transformative initiatives in human systems neuroscience within a collaborative and innovative environment. With generous funding, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong partnerships with leading institutions like UCL and GOSH, employees benefit from a culture that fosters bold research and professional growth, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advancing neuroscience.
Contact Details:
Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour Recruitment Team
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