At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research on gut hormones and inflammation using advanced techniques.
- Company: Join a leading research institute focused on innovative biomedical science.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training allowances, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with excellent mentoring and networking opportunities.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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 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 engaging in cutting-edge research that has real-world impact. The opportunity to work alongside leading experts and access state-of-the-art facilities makes this position not just a job, but a meaningful career path in the heart of London.
Contact Detail:
UK Shared Business Services Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts 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 you something tangible to discuss with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your responses. Focus on articulating your experience with in vivo models and your understanding of the gut-brain-immune axis. Confidence is key!
✨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 team at the LMS.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Scientist
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 Skills:Since this position involves leading in vivo research projects, be sure to detail your previous research experiences. We love seeing a proven track record of independent projects, so include any publications or presentations that demonstrate your expertise.
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 gives you a chance to explore more about our team and values.
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, brush up on your technical skills. Expect questions about your experience with surgeries and manipulations. Practise explaining complex procedures clearly, as this will demonstrate your expertise and communication skills.
✨Showcase Collaboration Skills
Highlight your experience working in multidisciplinary teams. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve collaborated with others to achieve research goals. This is crucial, as the role involves working closely with various team members and contributing to a supportive lab environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab’s current projects, future directions, and team dynamics. This not only shows your genuine interest in the position but also helps you assess if the lab is the right fit for you. It’s a two-way street!
