"Research Assistant/Research Associate in Visual Neuroscience and Computational Neuroscience"

University of Cambridge - Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience

Location: Central Cambridge

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate to drive a collaborative project in the labs of Dr Jasper Poort and Prof. Lengyel, based at the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. The successful candidate will work on a research project that will investigate the neural circuits and computational mechanisms of visual decision-making, learning, and attention.

The project combines two-photon imaging, electrophysiology and optogenetic manipulation of different cell types and neural projections in visual and decision-making brain areas to understand how mice learn to become experts in different visually-guided decision-making tasks and flexibly switch attention between tasks. The successful applicant will join a supportive and multi-disciplinary research environment including experimental facilities and expertise in the Poort lab and computational modelling methods and expertise in the Lengyel lab.

Applicants should have completed (or are about to submit) a PhD (research associate) or (under)graduate degree (research assistant) in neuroscience, biology, engineering, or other relevant disciplines. We are looking for someone with advanced data analysis skills (e.g. Matlab or Python) and experience with computational modelling, and previous experience in electrophysiology, two-photon imaging, optogenetics, and behaviour in mice. For more information about the labs see https://www.pdn.cam.ac.uk/svl/ and https://cbl.eng.cam.ac.uk/lengyel/.

Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Dr Jasper Poort (jp816@cam.ac.uk).

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 years in the first instance.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD; those without a PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

To apply for this post, please submit a CV, cover letter, and 1 page research proposal on circuit mechanisms of visually-guided decision-making.

We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.

The closing date for applications is 6th April 2026.

Please quote reference PM48947 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.