Job Description

The role

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We are seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated postdoc to work on our NERC funded project,

'Genetic architecture of brain evolution during ecological divergence

'. This NERC project aims to to reveal the nature of genetic variation facilitating brain evolution between ecologically divergent cichlid fishes to test the extent, nature and conservation of genetic associations among brain components. We are working on intraspecific variation and interspecific crosses between cichlid fish, to quantify and genetically map variation in brain composition. Alongside this, we will identify key developmental periods where trajectories of brain structure divide, providing a foundation to confirm the causative effects of genes implicated in brain evolution, and to examine how changes in the development of one structure impact another. The position is based at the School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, but will also work in collaboration with Dr Emilia Santos and a postdoc in her group at the Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge. As the position covers the end of the grant following to previous role holder finding new employment, the position is available for 5 months and will focus on finishing and writing up projects.

What will you be doing?

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This role focuses on quantifying and genetically mapping variation in brain composition. You will exploit existing data on samples of hundreds of fish, using DICE-CT and advanced image analyses to quantify brain composition in our sample sets. You will be responsible for managing the completion of this processes, combining it with genomic datasets to perform genome wide association studies (intraspecific variation) and mapping quantitative trait loci (interspecific crosses) to test hypotheses concerning the genetic architecture of brain evolution. You will be responsible for writing up the relevant studies and ensuring samples and data are organised and appropriately stored.

You should apply if

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You have experience in the field of evolutionary neurobiology, particularly in the context of speciation and recent adaptations in ecological models. You will have a good knowledge of modern methods for imaging and analysing brain structure, and strong interest in brain and behavioural evolution. Independence and good organizational skills are essential, and you should also work well within a team and communicate effectively with others. Excellent data management practice is also essential. We encourage under-represented groups to apply.

Additional information

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Informal expressions of interest can be directed to Stephen Montgomery, s.montgomery@bristol.ac.uk

Contract type:

Fixed term until 31/01/2026

Work pattern: Full-time

Grade: I

Salary: 38,249 - 44,128 per annum

School/Unit: School of Biological Sciences

This advert will close

at

23:59 UK time

on Tuesday 29th July 2025

Our strategy and mission

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We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an

inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential.

We want

to attract, develop, and retain individuals

with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives - particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.


JOB NUMBER

ACAD108207

CONTRACT TYPE/WORK PATTERN

Open ended / Full time

POSTING END DATE

29 Jul 2025

FACULTY/DIVISION

Faculty of Life Sciences

SALARY

38,249 - 44,128 per annum