Postdoctoral Scientist/CDF

Postdoctoral Scientists/CDFs

£30,914 to £33,755 per annum

3 years fixed term

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

An opportunity is available for a postdoctoral researcher to join the group of Dr Jing Ren at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/group-leaders/n-to-s/jing-ren/) to investigate how the serotonin system is assembled during development, and the consequences when it is disrupted.

We have revealed that the serotonin system within individual raphe nucleus contains parallel serotonin sub-systems, which lays the foundation for integrating anatomical, neurochemical, physiological, and behavioural functions of the serotonin system. We work to bridge the gap between the molecular mechanisms of developmental assembly and the behavioural functions of serotonin neurons.

We are looking for highly motivated individuals who will thrive in a friendly and supportive group.

1)    One will focus on revealing the molecular mechanisms underlying the circuitry formation of the serotonin system, by applying single-cell RNA sequencing, proteomic mapping, viral tracing and tissue clearing technology. Candidates with strong molecular biology, biochemistry and bioinformatics background are highly encouraged to apply.

2)    The other will focus on investigating how genetic defects of the serotonin system induce psychiatrically relevant behaviours by combining ex vivo and in vivo imaging, electrophysiology recording, chemogenetic and optogenetics. Candidates with experience in calcium imaging, confocal/2P microscopy, and light sheeting imaging are highly encouraged to apply.

Experience with mouse work would be an advantage but is not essential as this position provides the opportunity to learn and develop these techniques within a world-leading laboratory and animal facility.

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology provides an unsurpassed environment for early-career researchers, including an international, collaborative community, training and mentoring programmes for career development and world-class core facilities. In addition, the MRC provides excellent healthcare and social benefits.

The successful applicant will be awarded a three year Career Development Fellowship / Postdoctoral training Scheme position. This is a training and development position for a post-doctoral scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies, is moving into a new research discipline or has limited experience of key transferable skills. The MRC LMB has excellent scientific core facilities and training opportunities.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Jing Ren at jren@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk. Additional information about the Neurobiology Division and the Laboratory as a whole can be found at http://www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology is a research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is a new entity that brings together nine partners to create an independent organisation with a strong voice for research and innovation, more information can be found at www.ukri.org.

Working for UKRI MRC provides a whole host of benefits including:
•    Defined benefit pension scheme
•    Excellent holiday entitlement (40 ½ days including bank holidays & privilege days)
•    Benenden Healthcare membership
•    Access to employee shopping/travel discounts
•    On site sport and social facilities
•    Salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme
•    Childcare vouchers

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board at https://mrc.tal.net/vx/appcentre-ext/candidate/post/2515/en-GB

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

Closing date: 31 October 2019

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.
The Medical Research Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer who participates in the Disability Confident scheme.