Postdoctoral Scientist | Neurobiology | Dr William Schafer | LMB 3009 in Cambridge

£42,694 per annum

Overall purpose:

To work within the group of Dr William Schafer at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at mapping and analysing the structure of the hatchling octopus brain connectome. Specifically, to undertake research to us a combination of volume electron microscopy and expansion/light microscopy to study wiring of neural circuits in the octopus optic lobe and central brain.

To play a major role in the work of the research group, through the conduct of research, introduction of new ideas, dissemination of research results, support and training of others.

To be a focus of expertise on connectomics, analysis of neuronal gene expression using fluorescent probes and light microscopy, and network analysis.

Main duties

• To undertake research aimed at characterising neuropeptide signaling pathways in C. elegans and the hatchling octopus brain.
• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
• To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
• To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field.
• To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
• To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
• To assist in the training of PhD students and other members of the LMB.

Key responsibilities

Within the overall direction of the programme, the group, the remit of the project and in discussion with the Group Leader, you will make a significant input into determining the direction of the project within a three-year lifespan.

To plan your own work and objectives on a 12-month basis and manage your experimental work within the project along with your supervisor.

To work with limited supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply the necessary techniques to achieve the goals of the project.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.

To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, training of others and taking responsibility for use of communal facilities.

To enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.

Working relationships

You will report to Dr William Schafer and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary.

Additional information

This is a three-year training and development position for a Postdoctoral Scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies, is moving into a new research discipline or has limited experience of key transferable skills.

We support Postdoctoral Scientists with a range of formal and on-the-job training, including:

• MRC training courses.
• External training and personal development courses.
• One-to-one training with your Supervisor and other Scientists.

You will commit to undertaking the following:

• Developing and following a personal development plan.
• Attending training courses.
• Identifying additional training which will support you to develop your career.

Person Specification

Academic qualifications

These should include a PhD in a relevant subject or due to complete a PhD within 6 months.

Technical skills and expertise

Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project. Particularly useful would be experience of volume EM or expansion microscopy-based connectomics.

Computational skills, in particular with respect to genome analysis.

Analysis of neuronal gene expression using fluorescent markers and light microscopy.

Expertise in cellular and molecular neuroscience.

Experience in the quantitative analysis of behaviour.

Experience working with C. elegans and/or octopus hatchlings.

Track record of research

This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of

• Commitment.
• Originality.
• Ability to communicate.
• Working with others.

Corporate Responsibilities

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI:

• Code of Conduct
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
• Health and Safety policy
• Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.

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