Postdoctoral Scientist - Neurobiology - Dr Joergen Kornfeld - LMB 2511

Fixed term 3 years

The successful candidate will join the Kornfeld lab to investigate how learned behaviours, such as song production in zebra finches, are encoded in the brain’s synaptic networks. The role will involve conducting high-resolution 3D electron microscopy experiments to map the synaptic connections in the zebra finch brain. You will be responsible for tissue preparation, imaging, and data acquisition, followed by the detailed analysis of these vast datasets. Your work will contribute directly to understanding the neural circuits that underlie memory and behaviour, as we aim to link specific synaptic wiring patterns to learned behaviours. This position provides an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of experimental neuroscience and cutting-edge brain connectomics.

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or due to complete in 6 months in neuroscience, neurobiology, or a related field and have hands-on experience with electron microscopy, particularly in tissue preparation and imaging. You should be proficient in data analysis, with the ability to manage large imaging datasets and extract meaningful insights from complex neural structures. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with a proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Experience in connectomics, neuroanatomy, or data analysis would be highly advantageous. You should also have contributions to publications and excellent communication skills, both written and oral.

This is a three-year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills. Working with our world class scientists you will be working in an Institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high-quality research.

The LMB has an inclusive and collaborative working culture, and you will be based in our state-of-the-art building on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. You will be able to access our range of excellent benefits including a staff restaurant with roof terrace, on-site nursery, sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme with an employer contribution of 16%, holiday entitlement of 40.5 days per annum (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications.

The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board via the ‘Apply’ button above.

If you are unable to apply online please contact us at recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk. 

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.