Research Assistant – Quantitative Neuroscience

Biosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Silver lab (https://silve rlab.org/) in the Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology.

The SilverLab studies how neurons and local circuits within the neocortex and cerebellum encode behavioural parameters and how these representations change during reward-based learning.

The main purpose of this position is to analyse large-scale 3D imaging data sets of neuronal population activity and behaviour that are being generated by ongoing projects investigating neocortical and cerebellar function. This will involve adapting existing image analysis pipelines and applying advanced pre-processing, dimensionality reduction and regression methods.

Another key aspect will be to format data and analysis tools for release on repositories. There may also be opportunities to get involved in experiments. The RA will work as part of a team to advance lab projects and contribute to general lab duties.

The role is open ended role for one year with a funding end date of 31/08/2025 (end date may change depending on start date) and is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 60% on site.

If you have any queries about the role or need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please see contact details on the UCL job advert page.

You will assist the team in the analysis of neurophysiological and behavioural data. This will involve adapting existing 3D image analysis pipelines and writing new code in MATLAB and Python. In addition, you will format the data in a manner suitable for public release on data repositories.

You must have a Masters level degree in Neuroscience, extensive experience in analysing 3D fluorescence imaging and behavioural datasets in MATLAB, as well as a proven knowledge of advanced statistics and machine learning. Wet and dry neuroscience experience including fluorescence microscopy is also essential.

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