Research Group Leader - Neurobiology - LMB 2261

Research Group Leader
Starting Salary £58,841 to £68,700 per annum for appointment to Programme Leader Track,
£68,700 to £80,000 per annum for appointment to Programme Leader.
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

The Neurobiology Division of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) wishes to recruit an outstanding scientist to develop an independent research programme in the area of circuit neurobiology at synaptic resolution. This recruitment forms part of LMB’s Molecular Connectomics Initiative which aims to link the molecular biology of the synapse to whole-brain circuit mechanisms of behaviour. The LMB was the birthplace of connectomics through the pioneering work on the C. elegans connectome of White, Southgate, Thomson and Brenner. The Neurobiology Division, LMB and MRC are firmly committed to expanding this area of research: two new groups have already joined the division with two further recruitments planned. A search in molecular and cellular neurobiology is also in progress.

You will have a PhD, a strong track record of research and publications (including preprints) that matches your career stage, and outstanding potential for independent research. Areas of particular interest include developing and applying high-density image acquisition methods (electron, X-ray, light) to determine the structure, connectivity and function of intact nervous systems at synaptic resolution; bringing brain-scale connectomics to additional species (including vertebrates); experimental approaches that leverage connectomes to understand brain function; and computational analyses essential for research across these areas. Thematic fit and synergy are important, but scientific excellence and the potential for major impact are paramount. Current neural circuit research in the Division includes the mechanisms of learning and memory, sensory-motor processing, circadian rhythms and neuromodulation using model organisms including C. elegans, Drosophila and mice. There is already significant strength in generating and analysing connectomes in the invertebrate research groups. Additional research areas include the structural biology of the synapse and mechanisms of synaptic transmission, neuronal cell biology and protein misfolding and neurodegenerative disease. Please see www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/NB/ for additional information.

The LMB is dedicated to the understanding of important biological processes at the levels of molecules, cells and organisms. Supported by long-term, core funding, our scientists tackle fundamental research problems that may take many years to bear fruit. This often includes the development of new technologies where LMB has made revolutionary contributions including X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM to determine protein structures, the sequencing of DNA and the first genomes, and the development of monoclonal antibodies.

As an independent, core-funded research institute, LMB provides an unsurpassed environment to focus on scientific research. Group leaders carry out their own research with small, well supported teams. Scientists and graduate students are drawn from all over the world, creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and innovation. Approximately sixty research groups are divided across four scientific Divisions: Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. Collaboration across the LMB is extensive and there are excellent scientific facilities including electron and light microscopy, high performance computing and electromechanical workshops. We also benefit from a joint PhD programme and many collaborations with the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s preeminent universities in the natural sciences.

Informal enquiries can be made to the joint Heads of Division, Greg Jefferis (jefferis@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk) or Anne Bertolotti (aberto@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk).

Additional information:
Appointments are made at Programme Leader-track level for those who demonstrate potential to develop into Programme Leaders within six years, or at Programme Leader level for those with substantial experience of leading a research group.

Submissions should include a covering letter and full CV, an outline of current research interests (1 page) and a proposal for a future research programme, which addresses an important problem in an innovative and creative way (up to 2 pages), along with the names and addresses of three referees who have agreed to be contacted prior to interview.

Also check out our other Research Group Leader vacancy – LMB 2255 here: https://mrc.tal.net/vx/mobile-0/appcentre-ext/brand-3/candidate/so/pm/4/pl/1/opp/2255-Research-Group-Leader-Neurobiology-LMB-2255/en-GB

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 MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) which brings together nine research and innovation partners, more information can be found at www.ukri.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

This role qualifies for endorsement by UKRI for a UK Global Talent Visa, for which the successful applicant is likely to be eligible to apply. Immigration costs (visa and health surcharge) can be reclaimed from UKRI after taking up the post (terms and conditions apply).

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board at https://mrc.tal.net/vx/appcentre-ext/candidate/post/5104/en-GB .
If you are unable to apply online please contact us at recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

Applications will be reviewed on receipt. Short listing will be carried out for applications received by 16th November 2023, with first interviews planned in December.

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 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.