At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate spinal circuits in mouse models of ALS using advanced electrophysiological techniques.
- Company: Join the Nascimento Research Group at a leading university focused on translational neuroscience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, access to university benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with strong publication opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience research and contribute to understanding ALS.
- Qualifications: PhD in Neuroscience or nearing completion, with experience in electrophysiology.
The predicted salary is between 39148 - 41833 £ per year.
The Nascimento Research Group is a newly established laboratory within the Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, focused on translational neuroscience and the study of spinal motor circuit neurophysiology in both animal models of disease, including ALS, and in human patients. The group uses a range of electrophysiological approaches in rodents alongside high-density surface electromyography (HDsEMG) in humans.
Responsibilities:
- Study neuromuscular and spinal circuit pathophysiology in mouse models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
- Characterise the time‑course of alterations in spinal microcircuits, motoneurons, neuromuscular junctions, and muscle.
- Determine how these changes impact motor behaviour in mouse models of ALS.
- Employ neurophysiological recording techniques in mice, including in vitro motoneuron recordings from spinal cord preparations, in vivo motoneuron recordings from intact animals, and ex vivo neuromuscular junction recordings from nerve‑muscle preparations.
- Analyse data using appropriate statistical methods and prepare findings for publication.
Qualifications:
- PhD in a Neuroscience-related discipline (or be near completion) with experience in electrophysiology, in vitro patch clamp recordings and/or in vivo recordings.
- Good understanding of neuronal physiology and single‑cell electrophysiology.
- Proven ability to critically evaluate experimental results and analyse data using appropriate statistical methods.
- Evidence of a good publication record and a solid quantitative background with proficiency in data analysis and statistics.
Compensation and Benefits:
Starting salary offered at £41,103 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. Appointment as Research Fellow is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be as Research Assistant with salary £39,148–£41,833 per annum, with appointment as Research Fellow being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis. Benefits include access to the university benefits page.
Research Fellow - Mouse Electrophysiologist employer: UCL
The Nascimento Research Group offers an exceptional opportunity for passionate researchers in the field of neuroscience, particularly those interested in translational studies related to ALS. Located within a prestigious university, the group fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development through access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to contribute to impactful research that advances our understanding of neuromuscular diseases.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - Mouse Electrophysiologist
✨Explore University Career Fairs
University career fairs are gold mines, especially for biology roles. We should hit up these events, connect with potential employers like UCL, and get the inside scoop on full-time opportunities. Plus, it's a fab way to showcase our passion for the field!
✨Join Biology Communities
Get involved in local biology associations or online forums—these are great for networking and hearing about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Engaging in meaningful discussions can help us stand out and get noticed by hiring managers in the biology sector.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Plan to attend biology-related conferences or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections, learning about the latest research, and even finding out which companies, like UCL, are expanding and hiring full-time positions. Don't forget to bring your business cards!
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to flaunt your research experience and practical skills. Discuss any lab work, projects, or internships that demonstrate your expertise in biology. We want to make sure the interviewers see exactly why we're a great fit for the role at UCL.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - Mouse Electrophysiologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at UCL.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Research Fellow - Mouse Electrophysiologist at UCL.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications related to biology—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or even specific software for data analysis—be sure to mention those. They can really set you apart from other applicants and show us you’re dedicated to your professional development.
Highlight Team Projects and Communication Skills:Biology often involves collaboration, so don’t shy away from mentioning any team projects you've worked on in your CV. Emphasise how you communicated findings or contributed in group settings. This gives us insight into how you’d fit into our team at UCL.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at UCL.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at UCL are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Don’t underestimate the power of behavioural questions! Expect to discuss situations from your studies or internships where you showed teamwork, problem-solving, or conflict resolution. This is your chance to show that you're not only a great biologist but also a great colleague!