Postdoctoral Research Scientist in London

Postdoctoral Research Scientist in London

London Full-Time 42694 - 42694 € / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research on gut hormones and inflammation using advanced techniques.
  • Company: Join a vibrant lab at the MRC with a focus on innovative science.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, training allowances, and opportunities for career growth.
  • Other info: Supportive environment that values diversity and offers excellent mentoring.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in health research while collaborating with top scientists.
  • Qualifications: PhD in Physiology or Neuroscience and experience with in vivo mouse models required.

The predicted salary is between 42694 - 42694 € per year.

MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist in the Gut-Brain-Immune Axis (LMS Salary: £42,694 plus London allowances £5,560 per annum. Additional allowances comprise a £1,000 lump sum Settlement Allowance plus a yearly Training Allowance of £850 in the first year, paid in monthly instalments. The Training Allowance increases to £1,300 in year two, and £1,800 in the third year. 3 years Fixed term contract | Full time | Closing date: 7 June 2026.

Overall purpose: The Endocrine Signalling in Inflammation group investigates how gut hormones and related peptides modulate systemic inflammation via the gut-brain-immune axis. Leveraging the MRC LMS core facilities, we combine in vivo models, multi-scale phenotyping, and omics to map the pathways governing organ crosstalk and translate them into new strategies for managing chronic conditions, with a current focus on diseases driven by immunometabolic dysfunction.

We are seeking a talented Postdoctoral Scientist with expertise in Physiology or Neuroscience to join our team. As a key member, you will lead efforts to map the specific neural pathways through which these endocrine signals coordinate systemic inflammatory responses. Specifically, you will apply advanced in vivo techniques, such as intracranial surgery and peripheral nerve manipulation, within transgenic mouse models to decipher how gut hormones and related peptides regulate peripheral immunity via the nervous systems.

At our newly established lab, we are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment where people of all backgrounds can thrive. We value diversity and collaboration and focus on conducting cutting‑edge basic and translational science. At the LMS, we also offer excellent mentoring and support to help you reach your career goals. As a post holder, you will have the opportunity to work with an extensive network of collaborators, attend scientific conferences, and publish the results of your work in refereed journals.

To provide the adequate scientific environment for your career progression, you will be embedded within the research group headed by Dr. Chi Kin Wong, alongside a vibrant community of researchers specializing in metabolism, immunology, and chronic disease translation.

Key skills:
  • Background in Physiology or Neuroscience is required
  • Experience in designing and executing complex, longitudinal in vivo mouse models (e.g., dietary or inflammatory studies using transgenic models) is required
  • Experience in mouse survival surgery (e.g., intracranial surgeries or peripheral nerve manipulations) is essential
  • The ability to adapt across disciplines and the drive to establish novel techniques is essential
Main Responsibilities:
  • Lead in vivo research projects investigating how gut hormones and related peptides modulate inflammation via the gut-brain-immune axis
  • Manage animal colonies
  • Collaborate closely with other members of the team on various projects
  • Prepare work for publication and grant submissions
  • Present at seminars and conferences as necessary
  • Co‑supervise MSc and PhD students
  • Contribute to the smooth running of the Group’s/Unit’s laboratories and facilities with other scientists, clinicians, technicians and students within the laboratories
  • Comply with the Institute, College, Division, and Unit safety practices and attend courses on safety when appropriate
  • Any other duties as may be deemed reasonable by Head of group as well as Head of Division
Person requirements:
  • PhD (or equivalent) in Physiology, Neuroscience, or a closely related Biomedical Science discipline
  • Proven track record of leading independent research projects from hypothesis generation to data interpretation
  • Extensive experience designing and executing complex, longitudinal in vivo mouse models (e.g., transgenic, dietary, or inflammatory models)
  • Demonstrated record of high‑quality research through first‑author publications in peer‑reviewed journals
  • Experience collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams to achieve shared research objectives
Knowledge and experience:
  • A theoretical understanding of endocrine signalling, immunometabolism, and/or neural regulation of physiology
  • Competency in mouse handling, colony management, and standard dosing routes
  • Specific experience in mouse intracranial surgeries or peripheral nerve manipulations for gene silencing and/or chemogenetics
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English, with a proven ability to prepare manuscripts for publication and present scientific data effectively at seminars
Personal Skills / Behaviours / Qualities:
  • Ability to conduct reproducible research
  • Ability to conduct a detailed review of recent literature
  • Ability to develop and apply new concepts
  • Creative approach to problem‑solving
  • A keen interest in learning new skills
  • Excellent verbal communication skills in English and the ability to deal with a wide range of people
  • Ability to motivate others to produce a high standard of work
  • Ability to organise own work with minimal supervision
  • Ability to prioritise own work in response to deadlines
  • Advanced computer skills, including word‑processing, spreadsheets and the internet
  • Willingness to work as part of a team and to be open‑minded and cooperative
  • Flexible attitude towards work
  • Discipline and regard for confidentiality and security at all times
  • Willingness to undertake any necessary training for the role

Postdoctoral Research Scientist in London employer: UK Shared Business Services Ltd

The MRC offers an exceptional environment for Postdoctoral Research Scientists, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the vibrant research community at the London Institute of Medical Sciences. With competitive salaries, generous training allowances, and a commitment to diversity, employees are supported in their professional growth while contributing to groundbreaking research in the gut-brain-immune axis. The opportunity to work alongside leading experts and access state-of-the-art facilities makes this position not only rewarding but also pivotal for those looking to advance their careers in biomedical science.

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Contact Detail:

UK Shared Business Services Ltd Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Scientist in London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of Physiology or Neuroscience. Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet potential collaborators and mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your research projects, publications, and any presentations you've done. This will help you stand out during interviews and give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their team.

Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your responses to common questions. Focus on articulating your experience with in vivo models and your understanding of the gut-brain-immune axis.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our platform. It’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and shows your enthusiasm for joining our vibrant research community.

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Scientist in London

Expertise in Physiology
Expertise in Neuroscience
In vivo research techniques
Mouse model design and execution
Mouse survival surgery
Intracranial surgery
Peripheral nerve manipulation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in Physiology or Neuroscience. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!

Show Off Your Research Experience:We’re keen on candidates with a proven track record in leading research projects. Be sure to detail your experience with in vivo mouse models and any publications you’ve contributed to. This is your chance to shine, so let us know what you’ve achieved!

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so keep it professional yet engaging.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at UK Shared Business Services Ltd

Know Your Research Inside Out

Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and the specific projects you’ve worked on. Be ready to discuss your methodologies, findings, and how they relate to the gut-brain-immune axis. This will show your depth of knowledge and passion for the field.

Prepare for Technical Questions

Given the focus on in vivo techniques and mouse models, expect technical questions about your experience with surgeries and manipulations. Brush up on your skills and be prepared to explain your approach to designing and executing complex experiments.

Showcase Collaboration Skills

This role involves working closely with a multidisciplinary team. Be ready to share examples of past collaborations, how you contributed, and what you learned from those experiences. Highlighting your ability to work well with others will be key.

Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the lab’s current projects, future directions, or how they support career development. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.