Research Associate in Neurovascular Coupling

The University of Manchester - Division of Neuroscience

Job reference: BMH-030751
Salary: £37,694- £41,064 per annum, according to relevant experience
Faculty/Organisational Unit: Biology, Medicine Health
Location: Oxford Road
Employment type: Fixed Term
Division/Team: Division of Neuroscience
Hours Per Week: 1.0 FTE
Closing date: 11/02/2026
Contract Duration: 60 months starting 1 August 2026
School/Directorate: School of Biological Sciences

This is an outstanding opportunity for a Research Associate, with a background in imaging the cerebral vasculature in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease, to work within the Brain Inflammation and Microvascular@Manchester groups under the supervision of Dr Kira Shaw and Dr Ingo Schiessl. The post holder will be based in the Division of Neuroscience.

The candidate will support the aims of investigating the effects of menopause on neurovascular health using preclinical mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and AD risk, funded by the Wellcome Trust. This innovative project will involve the use of in vivo imaging approaches (e.g. multi-photon microscopy and optical imaging spectroscopy) to assess neuronal and vascular function in the hippocampus and neocortex of awake mice. Cognitive function will be assessed using established behavioural tests. Post-mortem analysis will include immunohistochemistry and RNA sequencing to identify candidate treatments targeting menopause-sensitive vasodilation pathways.

This position offers an ideal opportunity for an enthusiastic, well-motivated individual to work as part of a sociable multi-disciplinary team. The ideal candidate will have excellent preclinical imaging skills, and will be able to work with minimal supervision. Experience of imaging the cerebral vasculature in vivo is essential for the position.

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.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Kira Shaw
Email: kira.shaw@manchester.ac.uk
Name: Ingo Schiessl
Email: ingo.scheissl@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk