Academic ConnectPostdoctoral Research Associate (Fixed Term)
Postdoctoral Research Associate (Fixed Term)
A Research Associate post is available in the Drosophila Connectomics Group directed by Greg Jefferis and Matthias Landgraf in the Department of Zoology at the University of Cambridge.
The applicant will work with very large volume electron-microscopy Drosophila connectomics data as part of a new £10.5M collaborative ERC Synergy project and a £6.7M award from Wellcome. The latter has recently generated the first complete synaptic-resolution connectome for a whole adult D. melanogaster central nervous system. In the near future, we will produce a number of additional connectomes for other Drosophilid species.
The principal aim for this post is the development of graph-based methods and open source tools to align connectomes for comparative analyses. Initially, efforts will focus on integrating this most recent dataset with existing connectomes such as FAFB/FlyWire or MANC. A very strong quantitative preparation and extensive experience in bioinformatics/computer science (R and/or Python) and network analysis methods will be essential as is some background in neurobiology and prior experience with connectomics data (Drosophila connectomics experience highly desirable).
The successful candidate will join a team based in Zoology with 13 team members, carrying out data processing and analysis on computer-assisted neuronal reconstruction data. They will interact closely with a similar team in Tarragona (Spain) as well as experimental groups, especially Greg Jefferis (MRC-LMB, Cambridge). Candidates will need to be highly motivated and develop a good understanding of the nature of the data and the projects scientific aims. This will be critical to setting priorities as it develops. Close teamwork and a collaborative spirit will be essential, but team members will be expected to demonstrate scientific independence matching their technical expertise. There will be opportunities to contribute to training new team members and to general project management, as well as to participate in public engagement activities.
Interview dates: Between 15th and 19th December 2026.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 December 2026.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
We particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Dr Philipp Schlegel pms70@cam.ac.uk and Dr Greg Jefferis gsxej2@cam.ac.uk
If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Paulina Lasocka pl585@cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference PF48038 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.
Key information
Department/location
Salary
£37,694-£46,049
Reference
PF48038
Category
Date published
24 November 2025
Closing date
8 December 2025
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