Postdoctoral Scientist - Neurobiology - Dr Albert Cardona - LMB 2765

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology

Fixed term, 2 years

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

Dr Albert Cardona’s group at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) studies the neural circuit basis of behaviour. The goal is to map the synaptic wiring diagram (connectome) of whole brains using machine learning approaches to computer vision in a disease model.

To compare connectomes across conditions, developmental stages, and species, we must first measure natural variability by mapping multiple individuals and quantifying differences from a common subset. Mapping the first connectome manually took 10 years and dozens of labs. Today, with existing knowledge, a reference connectome, the stereotyped nature of the larval fly brain, and machine learning, we can automate mapping across many animals to study variation in development, disease, and species. Identifying these differences will clarify the relationship between circuit structure and function. The candidate will apply automated approaches to large-scale connectome mapping in wild-type and disease-model fruit fly larvae.

The ideal candidate will hold (or be due to complete within 6 months) a PhD in neuroscience or a related field (physics, computer science, applied math, or quantitative biology) with experience in bioimage informatics for large-scale volumetric data or neuroscience imaging, activity monitoring, behavioural tracking, or transcriptomics. Further technical skills are detailed in the job description.

The LMB has a collaborative working culture and 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. 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 www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board via the 'Apply' button above.

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

Closing date: 15th February 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; recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.