Sainsbury Wellcome Centre Group Leader

About the role

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-through 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 principal investigators, and clinical partners at UCLH and GOSH.

The salary for this position is competitive according to relevant skills, knowledge, experience and achievement. Interviews are expected to be held in May. 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.

How to apply

Please upload the following documents 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 animal and human neuroscience.
• Contact details of three referees.

For further enquiries, please contact the Chair of the Search Committee, SWC Director Professor Tom Mrsic-Flogel. Queries relating to the application process should be directed to the SWC HR Team.

About you

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.

What we offer

SWC offers staff an award-winning work environment in the heart of Fitzrovia with state-of-the-art facilities, an on-site brasserie and access to pleasant outdoor spaces.