Salary £42,694 per annum
Fixed term, 3 years
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
The successful candidate will join the Kornfeld group to investigate how learned behaviours are encoded in the brain’s synaptic networks. The role will involve conducting high-resolution 3D electron microscopy and expansion microscopy experiments to map the synaptic connections in various model organisms. 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 complex behaviour, as we aim to link specific synaptic wiring patterns to behaviours. This position provides an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of experimental neuroscience and cutting-edge brain connectomics. The post is part of a collaboration between the Kornfeld and Jefferis groups at the LMB, and the project will be jointly supervised by Dr Joergen Kornfeld and Dr Greg Jefferis.
The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in neuroscience, neurobiology, or a related field, or is due to complete within 6 months, and have hands-on experience with expansion microscopy and electron microscopy for connectomics, 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 a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have excellent public transport on site including the Cambridge South train station (a two-minute walk from the lab), cycle enclosures and on-site parking. We have a staff restaurant with roof terrace and access to a Campus nursery and sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a 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. Further information about the benefits available can be found at http://www.discover.ukri.org/benefits-of-working-at-ukri.
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 https://mrclmb.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)
Closing date: 10 November 2026
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; [contact details available in the full listing].
