Circadian Neuroscientist

Location: John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU

We are seeking a neuroscientist with a strong background in circadian and visual biology to work as part of the Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute (SCNi) within the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (NDCN). The research interests of the SCNi are to: (A) Understand the neural mechanisms that generate and regulate sleep and circadian biology (B) Define the mechanistic links between sleep/circadian rhythm disruption and disorders of the central nervous system and © Apply this knowledge for the development of evidence-based clinical interventions.

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a specific research project entitled ‘The role of naturalistic behaviour and light environments in circadian entrainment’, which will be based within the SCNi. They will work closely with Prof Stuart Peirson (www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/stuart-peirson). The aim of this project is to investigate circadian photoentrainment under ecologically-relevant conditions in the laboratory. This will involve characterising light sampling behaviour under naturalistic light environments, and the photoreceptors mediating this behaviour. Data generated from this proposal will critically inform our understanding of the role of behaviour in photoentrainment.

Laboratory work will involve the use of circadian techniques including activity monitoring and sleep assessment, the measurement and manipulation of light, and behavioural testing. A Home Office Licence (A-C) or equivalent experience is essential and the candidate must have, or be close to completing a Phd/DPhil.

The post is full-time. They must have experience in in the development of novel home-cage activity monitoring/behavioural test apparatus for rodents and also experience in designing natural light environment simulations in the lab setting. The post holder will be expected to contribute to the training and mentoring of some junior staff.

Please see the below 'Job Description' for further details on the responsibilities and selection criteria, as well as further information about the university and how to apply.

The post is full time for a 6-month contract in the first instance.

Only applications received before 12:00 midday on Monday 29^th July will be considered.

Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.

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