Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre

We are looking for a postdoctoral neuroscience researcher to join the research teams of Professor Cathy Fernandes and Dr Laura Andreae (King’s College London) and we anticipate will be based at the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging (University of Oxford) working with our collaborator Professor Jason Lerch.

The project will investigate the maturation of brain function in novel mouse models of genetic risk for schizophrenia. It is part of the collaborative MURIDAE Cluster, led by Professor Anthony Isles (Cardiff University), of the recently formed MRC National Mouse Genetics Network (NMGN, https://nmgn.mrc.ukri.org/clusters/muridae/).

The position is funded in the first instance for 2 years 2 months with possibility of 5 months extension, dependent on us achieving project milestones. Although the majority of the project work for the postholder will be based at Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging (University of Oxford), there is some flexibility in these arrangements.

The role will involve analysis of the development of brain function at the synaptic, neuronal, circuit and behavioural level using genetically modified mice. Experimental approaches will include the collection and analysis of longitudinal brain magnetic resonance imaging data in neonatal-to-adult models, and integration of this data with data collected across the MURIDAE cluster. A major aspect of the project will be development of novel approaches for quantifying the developmental trajectory of maturation of behaviour in young mice. As this post is within the larger MURIDAE Cluster and NMGN, collaboration is a vital part of the role. This will bring opportunities for training and teamwork with colleagues across different UK Institutions.

You should apply if you have a PhD in neuroscience or a related subject and an appetite for doing exciting, cutting edge and collaborative lab-based research. The ideal candidate will have experience in the collection and analysis of MRI data in rodent models. Good all-round IT and database skills, coding and image analysis skills would also be an advantage. Although experience in these techniques is an advantage, training can be provided within our groups if needed. Most important is that you should have a strong interest in applying these methods to investigate the development of brain function in mouse models of genetic risk for schizophrenia. You should be able to work independently, to maintain excellent relationships with our collaborators. High quality written communication and presentation skills are essential. In our labs, we strive for cutting-edge research discovery in a fun, collegiate and supportive environment. 

This is a full-time post, and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 31st October 2026.

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria

1. PhD qualified in relevant subject area (or pending results).
2. Knowledge of research in neuroscience, particularly relating to neurodevelopmental disorders.
3. Experience working with mouse models.
4. Evidence of productive previous research projects.
5. Fluent in spoken and written English.
6. Excellent organisational, communication, interpersonal and administrative skills.
7. Excellent time-management skills with ability to work to deadlines.
8. Able to work within a team environment.

Desirable criteria

1. Coding experience with Matlab, Python and/or R, and LINUX/bash.
2. Expertise in the collection and analysis of MRI data in rodents.
3. Experience of open research practices and an understanding of issues relating to reproducibility, replicability and reliability in research.
4. Experience of collaborations with industry.
5. Home Office Personal Licence for animal research.

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