Specialist Technician (Research)

Within the hippocampus memory representations are stored and updated in a way that depends on uncertainty. This process relies on inputs that signpost new information and regulate the extent to which it is incorporated in future estimates by synaptic plasticity. We will test our central hypothesis that this signposting is performed by functionally overlapping neuromodulator systems interacting in an integrated fashion to signal different types of error and uncertainty. This signal enables appropriate updating of memories stored in the hippocampus providing realistic expectations on which to base decision making in uncertain situations, a fundamental process whose disruption is a core feature of multiple psychiatric disorders.

The role will involve supporting experiments using electrophysiology and 2-photon imaging in rodent brain slices and rodent behaviour to measure where neuromodulation by acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin occurs in the hippocampal network and how this impacts network function and synaptic plasticity. A critical part of the role will be to develop and implement a cross-institution data sharing system for the whole team. These findings will inform a novel theoretical framework which will be iteratively refined by experiments to selectively manipulate neuromodulator release and downstream targets, providing mechanisms for how neuromodulators integrate to control synaptic plasticity. Ultimately this project will fundamentally reappraise the principles of neuromodulation and its therapeutic potential.

This is a highly collaborative project integrating expertise in neuromodulators and synaptic physiology (Mellor, Bristol), hippocampal representations (Dombeck, Northwestern) and computational modelling (Clopath, Imperial College). The team science approach will require individuals who think creatively and flourish in collaborative environments.

The role is part of a 7 year project that includes multiple posts within the team and is supported by the Wellcome Trust.

The role is fixed term for 42 months with potential to extend.

What will you be doing?

You will:

• Work with academic partners in Bristol and other institutions to plan and design research experiments.
• Develop a data management system for handling data across institutions.
• Managing rodent colonies as well as sourcing and maintaining stocks of lab materials and consumables.
• Gaining expertise and training others in specialist techniques, processes and procedures including electrophysiology and 2photon microscopy, rodent behaviour and surgery.
• Update stakeholders regularly with progress and options for discussion.

You should apply if

You have:

• Experience in neuroscience research and a passion for understanding the neurobiological basis of memory.
• Excellent IT skills and experience with data management systems
• Experience with data handling, management and analysis.
• The ability to work as part of a collaborative research team is essential.

Additional information

Contract type: Open ended (Fixed term funding for 42 months)

Work pattern: Part-time (19 hours per week)

School/Unit: School of Psychology and Neuroscience

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 08/10/2026

For informal queries please contact:

Professor Jack Mellor, Professor in Neuroscience via email: jack.mellor@bristol.ac.uk

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Available documents

• SUPP113764 - Specialist Technician - Job Description.pdf

£35,608 to £39,906. Grade H, per annum pro rata