Job Description

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate position in the lab of Dr. Sepiedeh Keshavarzi at the University of Cambridge. The role involves investigating neural circuits underlying spatial orientation and is funded by the Wellcome Trust.

The project combines behaviour, electrophysiology, calcium imaging, and circuit manipulation across the thalamic and cortical networks involved in navigation, using the mouse as an animal model. Further information can be found on our lab website at .

Key Competencies:

We are seeking a highly motivated researcher with prior experience in circuit/systems neuroscience research. Applicants should hold (or be close to receiving) a Ph.D. in Neuroscience or related disciplines.

The successful candidate will have:

• Experimental expertise in electrophysiology (in vivo or in vitro) or calcium imaging (in vivo).
• High level of competence in data analysis and analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal and written scientific communication skills in English.
• Comprehensive knowledge of circuit/systems neurobiology and evident interest in the lab\'s research program.

Preference will be given to candidates who additionally demonstrate the following desirable skills and achievements:

• Proficient programming skills in Python and/or Matlab.
• Expertise in designing and building bespoke experimental setups for behavioural studies and neural recording.
• Expertise in developing quantitative behavioural tasks for rodents.
• Expertise in circuit manipulation techniques (opto- and chemogenetics).
• A strong track record of research output and achievements, such as high-quality publications.

Role Summary:

The role involves developing and conducting novel behavioural experiments, recording neural activity using electrophysiology and/or calcium imaging, manipulating circuits and cell types, and performing data analysis. In addition to research activities, the postholder is expected to write fellowship applications, present research findings at conferences, contribute to writing articles, and provide training and supervision to students and other junior lab members.

Research Environment:

The postdoctoral fellow will join an inclusive, supportive and multidisciplinary research environment, closely interacting with other circuit/systems neuroscience groups studying sensory processing and cognitive functions. Training opportunities in experimental and computational approaches will be available. Additionally, regular interactions with the principal investigator will offer career mentorship and scientific supervision. Collaboration possibilities with hardware and software engineers and computational neuroscientists are also available.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the \'Apply\' button above.

Please submit a CV and a cover letter addressing how your research skills align with the job description, your reasons for joining the lab, and your future research ambitions and career goals. Include the contact details of two references.

The post is available from November 2023 onwards for an initial three-year term, with the possibility for extension.

Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Dr Sepiedeh Keshavarzi ( ).

Salary: \xc2\xa335,308 - \xc2\xa343,155. The starting salary will be within this range depending on skills and experience.

Closing Date: August 25, 2023. We will hold interviews in early September and make the final decision by mid-September.

Please quote reference PM36807 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 Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience particularly encourages women and candidates from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background to apply for this vacancy.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

\xc2\xa335,308 to \xc2\xa343,155 pa

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