"Research Associate (Fixed Term)"

We are looking for a highly motivated, proactive and enthusiastic postdoc to work on a Wellcome Trust funded project within the Galliano laboratory at the University of Cambridge. Our research focuses on investigating how brain cells change in response to altered sensory inputs, and how such changes in brain cells underpin adaptation, learning and memory at the behavioural level. We use mice as model systems, and we probe the brain networks that encode their sense of smell. We are an inclusive, diverse and welcoming group, invested in open-science and outreach, and committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all members.

You will lead the design and delivery of patch clamp electrophysiology and single molecule imaging in the context of a project investigating how olfactory deprivation or enrichment prompt adaptive and associative plasticity in neurons within the olfactory bulb. You will also help setting up data analysis pipeline and contribute to generate a computational model of bulbar neurons. Your responsibilities will also include analysing previously-collected data, and write manuscripts and fellowships.

The successful candidate will have:

• BSc and MSc in Life Science, Biology, Neuroscience or related disciplines.
• PhD in Neuroscience.
• Substantial expertise with patch-clamp electrophysiology in neurons.
• Substantial expertise with imaging (confocal, two-colours single-molecule localization super-resolution microscopy, 3D super-resolution microscopy, single-particle tracking) and subsequent data analysis.
• Experience molecular biology techniques.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in quantitative analysis of large datasets in R, Matlab, or Python.
• Desirable experience with computational modelling, e.g. building biophysical models in NEURON.
• Proven track record of research leadership, as demonstrated by a publication record of preprints and published article.
• Specific examples of excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a research team.
• Specific examples of strong problem-solving abilities and instances demonstrating the capability to work independently as well as within a team.

Appointments will be made on a fixed-term, full-time basis for 2 years in the first instance. We are open to discussing various patterns of part-time work to accommodate individual circumstances and/or caring responsibilities. The start date is moderately flexible, but ideally, we would like the position to commence in February 2026.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

To ensure your application is as strong as possible, please follow the instructions carefully. Candidates should upload a CV (maximum 3 pages) and a cover letter addressing the following points:

• Why you want to join our lab and lead this project.
• How you align with the lab's values and philosophy, found here.
• How this position will serve as a valuable stepping stone for your career.
• How your previous experience has prepared you for the technical demands of this role.
• Your (brief) thoughts on the most interesting and yet unanswered questions in the fields of plasticity and olfaction.

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

While informal inquiries via email to Elisa Galliano are welcome, we will only consider applications submitted through the online application form and not those sent by email.

The closing date for applications is 6th October 2025.

Please quote reference PM47351 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 Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience particularly encourages women and candidates from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background to apply for this vacancy.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.