Research Assistant (Two Posts) - Neural Circuits of Spatial Orientation (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant in Dr. Keshavarzi's lab at the University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience. The lab's research, funded by the Wellcome Trust, focuses on the organisation and function of neural circuits underlying the sense of direction and self-motion, using mice. For more details, please visit the lab website https://www.keshavarzilab.com/.

Projects

The position focus's on distinct aspects of the lab's research, with opportunities for collaboration for candidates with overlapping skills and interests:

1. Neural Circuit Organisation in the Head Direction System: This project investigates the organisation of neural circuits in the head direction system, focusing on the retrosplenial cortex and its connections with cortical and thalamic areas. Techniques include patch-clamp recordings in brain slices, optogenetics, and neural tracing. Candidates may also participate in in vivo methods and behavioural experiments to connect circuit structure and function, particularly if pursuing a PhD in the lab.
2. Development and Testing of Behavioural Analysis Software: This project focuses on testing an open-source software, movement (https://movement.neuroinformatics.dev/index.html in collaboration with neuroinformaticians), for analysing animal behaviour. Responsibilities include evaluating movement and related tools and contributing to its publication. Strong programming skills (ideally Python) are required. Additional responsibilities involve maintaining the lab's behavioural acquisition software (Bonsai-based), with collaborator support. The role also offers opportunities to gain experimental skills, including behavioural training, surgical procedures, and in vivo electrophysiology (Neuropixels), ideal for transitioning into a research project and pursuing a PhD in the lab.

The post is suited for candidates seeking long-term commitment, with potential for extension and PhD application with the lab. Exceptional candidates may receive lab-funded PhD support.

Key Experience and Competencies

We are seeking self-motivated individuals with experience in cellular neurophysiology or circuit/systems neuroscience research.

Essential Qualifications:

• Experienced in either: Slice patch-clamp recording and data analysis or programming (Python, MATLAB) for data acquisition and analysis.
• Undergraduate or master's degree in Neuroscience or a related field with evidence of academic excellence.
• Strong communication skills in English.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with optogenetics, stereotactic surgery, quantitative animal behaviour, neural recording techniques.
• Expertise in building custom experimental setups.

How to Apply

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

Please submit the following documents:

• A CV, including overall grades for each degree.
• A cover letter addressing: Your motivation for joining the lab. How your skills align with the job description. Your research ambitions and career goals.
• Contact details for two referees.

For informal inquiries, contact Dr. Keshavarzi at sk2244@cam.ac.uk.

Closing Date: 21 February 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position may close early once filled.

Start Date: Available from March 2025 for one year in the first instance.

Please quote reference PM44821 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Advert information