Research Associate - Neuroscience Research Group (Fixed Term)

Are you excited by the mechanisms of neurotransmission and behaviour and looking for a new opportunity? We are looking for an enthusiastic, inquisitive and motivated post-doctoral researcher to join the team in the Hardege lab in the Department of Zoology (https://www.hardege-lab.com/). The lab aims to understand how the function and diversity of neurotransmitter receptors is used to generate complex behaviours, including learning, in the small invertebrate model organism C. elegans.

We have recently discovered a range of novel dopamine receptors in C. elegans and found that different receptors are often expressed within a single neuron. This BBSRC-funded project aims to understand the interplay between excitatory and inhibitory metabotropic and ionotropic dopamine receptors and how they contribute to the regulation of complex behaviours.

This will involve a range of techniques including high resolution confocal microscopy to determine receptor localisation, behavioural analysis of C. elegans and computational modelling of the C. elegans neural network. The lab also uses Two Electrode Voltage Clamp (TEVC) electrophysiology and molecular biology techniques to characterise receptors. There are a broad range of training opportunities available, and you will also have the opportunity to mentor other lab members, attend scientific meetings and get involved in public engagement activities.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in a relevant area (or be close to completion) and a good understanding of neurotransmission and behaviour. We welcome applicants with experience in some of the following areas and with a desire to learn others: molecular biology, research using model system such as C. elegans, confocal imaging and computational analysis. We are also looking for someone who enjoys working both independently and collaboratively, values a supportive lab environment and possesses good communication and organisational skills.

This is an onsite post. We have funding available for a full-time 3-year contract, with a flexible start date starting between November 2025 and March 2026.

Please include a CV and cover letter (max. 2 pages) explaining why this role interests you and how your experience aligns with the candidate profile in the further particulars document, as well as the details of two referees.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive research environment and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We are also open to discussing part-time/flexible work arrangements to accommodate individual circumstances.

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

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Dr Iris Hardege (ih287@cam.ac.uk)

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Paulina Lasocka (pl585@cam.ac.uk)

Please quote reference PF47153 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.

Apply online