Research Assistant / Associate (Fixed Term)
We are looking for a highly motivated, proactive and enthusiastic postdoc to work on a Wellcome Trust funded project within the Galliano laboratory the University of Cambridge. Our research focuses on investigating how brain cells change in response to altered sensory inputs, and how such changes in brain cells underpin adaptation, learning and memory at the behavioural level. We use mice as model systems, and we probe the brain networks that encode their sense of smell. We are an inclusive, diverse and welcoming group, invested in open-science and outreach, and committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all members.
You will lead the design of an imaging analysis pipeline in the context of a project investigating how olfactory deprivation prompt adaptive and associative plasticity in neurons within the olfactory bulb. You will also help setting up advanced optical techniques, including 2-photon microscopy and holographic light shaping, to monitor and manipulate neural activity in vivo, and build olfactometers to precisely deliver olfactory stimuli. Your responsibilities will also include analysing previously-collected data, and write manuscripts and fellowships.
The successful candidate will have:
- BSc and MSc in Biology or related disciplines
- PhD in Neuroscience or a related field (or be about to receive one)
- Substantial expertise with in vivo functional calcium imaging in defined neuronal populations
- Strong analytical skills and proficiency in quantitative analysis of large datasets in R, Matlab, and Python
- Background in chemosensory physiology and neurobiology of learning
- Experience in behavioural testing and familiarity with tool development (e.g., of custom devices to present chemosensory stimuli)
- Proven track record of research leadership, as demonstrated by strong publication record of preprints and published article.
- Specific examples of excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a research team.
- Specific examples of strong problem-solving abilities and instances demonstrating the capability to work independently as well as withing a team.
- It would be desirable to have experience with molecular biology techniques.
Appointments will be made on a fixed-term, full-time basis for 2 years in the first instance. We are open to discussing various patterns of part-time work to accommodate individual circumstances and/or caring responsibilities. The start date is moderately flexible, but ideally, we would like the position to commence in March 2025.
More information on the group, project, benefits offered by the university (such as subsidized housing), and detailed instructions on how to craft your cover letter are included in the further particulars.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To ensure your application is as strong as possible, please follow the instructions carefully. Candidates should upload a CV (maximum 3 pages) and a cover letter addressing the following points:
- Why you want to join our lab and lead this project.
- How you align with the lab's values and philosophy, found here https://gallianolab.org/how-we-operate/
- How this position will serve as a valuable stepping stone for your career.
- How your previous experience has prepared you for the technical demands of this role.
- Your (brief) thoughts on the most interesting and yet unanswered questions in the fields of plasticity and olfaction.
Ensure that your CV and cover letter together address all these criteria. Please also include the contact details of two professional referees. While informal inquiries via email to Elisa Galliano are welcome, we will only consider applications submitted through the online application form and not those sent by email. The application deadline is 2nd December 2024.
Please quote reference PM44053 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.