Research associate in neuroscience

Job reference: BMH-028965

Salary: £37,174 - £45,413 per annum depending on relevant experience

Faculty/Organisational unit: Biology, Medicine Health

Location: Manchester

Employment type: Fixed term

Division/Team: Division of Neuroscience

Hours per week: Full time (1 FTE)

Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 18/06/2025

Contract duration: 35 months

School/Directorate: School of Biological Sciences

We are seeking a postdoctoral research associate to develop preclinical genetic therapies for epilepsy.

The project focuses on microRNAs – short noncoding RNAs which negatively regulate gene expression – and their role(s) in epilepsy. The candidate will use a combination of cell culture and rodent models to interrogate the mechanistic and therapeutic effects of novel microRNA-based therapies. In particular, we will focus on the relationships between microRNA and GABAergic signalling in the context of epilepsy.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience in patch clamp electrophysiology and gene expression analysis with RT-qPCR. Candidates will ideally have experience of working with laboratory rodents, as well as in vitro/in vivo epilepsy models and rodent behavioural assays. Candidates with experience in most (but perhaps not all) of these approaches are encouraged to enquire or apply.

What you will get in return:

Fantastic market leading pension scheme

Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme

Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays

Additional paid closure over the Christmas period

Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our university is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from recruitment agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.

Any CVs submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Dr Gareth Morris

Email: gareth.morris-3@manchester.ac.uk

Lab website: www.morrisepilepsylab.com

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support: