Research Assistant/Associate (Fixed Term)

About Us:

The Neural Network Development Group (https: // www. zoo.cam.ac.uk/research/cell-and-developmental-biology/neural- network-development) is studying how nervous systems develop and become functional. We work with Drosophila as a model and are seeking a motivated individual to join our collaborative team. If you are interested in development or neuroscience, have good critical thinking and data analysis skills, and come with lab experience, we want to hear from you.

The Role

You will be part of a friendly, collaborative team focused on understanding how early life experiences during so-called 'critical periods' of development have lasting impacts on nervous system function; for example, by determining nerve cell growth and excitability. This project uses the fruit fly, Drosophila, as a model system. We have discovered that different temperatures experienced during development (e.g. hot vs cold) change how the nervous system develops and functions. For example, when a fly embryo experiences heat stress for just two hours, its nervous system develops sub-optimally, and the resultant larva behaves abnormally and is susceptible to seizures. We have discovered the underlying mechanisms, including metabolic signals and transduction pathways. The project is now at the exciting stage of bringing several discoveries together, for publication.

Your role includes fly husbandry and genetics, dissections, immuno-staining and imaging of larvae; followed by image data analysis. You will be working closely with other members of the team, with opportunity for a high degree of independence. While skills in some of the techniques are advantageous, expertise and training for all aspects are available within the team.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Professor Matthias Landgraf at [email protected].

Please upload a copy of your CV (2 sides of A4 maximum) and a covering letter (1 side of A4 maximum).

Interview dates: Interviews will be held week commencing 19th March 2024 and may be conducted remotely.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 year in the first instance up to June 2025.

Flexible working requests will be considered.

We particularly welcome applications from women or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our University.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

If you have any queries regarding the application process please contact Anastasia Nezhentseva.

Email: [email protected] Telephone: (0)1223 330117

Please quote reference PF40420 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.

Department of Zoology, Central Cambridge

£29,605-£44,263

PF40420

Research

7 February 2024

7 March 2024