Research Assistant/Associate (Experimental Neuroscience)

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

Salary
Research Assistant: £31,396 to £32,982 per annum.
Research Associate: £33,966 o £44,263 per annum.

The Role
You are a highly skilled and motivated Scientist with a strong background in electrophysiology to join our Experimental Neuroscience team. You will conduct advanced research focusing on whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in mouse and human brain tissue to investigate the multiscale effects of neuromodulators such as histamine and serotonin using a combination of optogenetic release and pharmacology.

The project… The neocortex is a complex brain structure that commands higher-order cognitive functions such as intelligence, learning and memory. It is densely innervated by neuromodulatory projections, which control the multiscale organization of neurons, synapses and network activity. The effects of neuromodulators in the cortex are typically studied at a single level of organization - neurons, synapses or networks. Consequently, much of the prevailing views on high-level cortical function appear to be centred around ideas that largely ignore the multiscale effects of neuromodulation.

The overall aim of this project is to systematically dissect the multiscale functional logic governing neuromodulatory release in mouse and human cortical circuits by employing an innovative toolbox of whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology and optogenetic release. The project is funded by a Lister Institute Research Prize.

This post is fixed-term for a period of 18 months with a possibility of extension (project end date is 7 August 2026).

For informal enquiries contact: Dr Srikanth Ramaswamy at srikanth.ramaswamy@newcastle.ac.uk.

Find out more about the Faculty of Medical Sciences here: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/medical-sciences/.

Find out more about our Research Institutes here: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/medical-sciences/research/institutes/.

As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.

Please note that if you are successful to this role, you will require medical clearance before you can commence in the role.

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