Research Assistant In Neuroscience (Fixed Term)

A Research Assistant position is available within the group of Dr Zahid Padamsey at the Institute of Metabolic Science (IMS). The lab focusses on brain-body interactions, specifically on understanding how diet and metabolic hormones affect mammalian neocortex. The lab is currently looking for a Research Assistant with experience in cell culture to examine how genetic/pharmacological manipulations of metabolic hormone (e.g. leptin and insulin) signalling pathways impact cortical neuron function and energy use. This work will employ calcium, ATP, and oxygen imaging approaches. There is also scope for interested candidates to use and learn whole cell patch clamp recordings in their experiments. The findings of this work will be crucial for identifying druggable targets for improving brain function and energy use. Candidates are encouraged to apply if they have a neuroscience background and are keen to study metabolic science and brain-body interactions at a world-renowned institute. Applicants are required to have some experience with cell culture and molecular biology (e.g. immunohistochemistry). It is desirable, but not required, for candidates to have experience with plate reading, confocal imaging, electrophysiology, and/or data/statistical analysis. It is not expected that the candidate will have an extensive experience in all the experimental/analytical techniques required for the project from the onset. However, it is expected that the candidate has the aptitude, passion, and perseverance to learn new things. The lab recognizes the importance of career development for its members and will provide the necessary training, including in experimental skills and professional development, where appropriate. Website: https://www.mrl.ims.cam.ac.uk/research/principal-investigators/zahid-padamsey/ Key responsibilities Culturing and maintaining primary cortical cultures from E18 or P0-P2 rats Genetic and/or pharmacological manipulation of metabolic receptor signaling pathways Use of plate readers/confocal microscopy to image neuronal function and energy use Immunohistochemistry and image analysis Data and statistical analysis Lab management (e.g. record keeping, ordering supplies) If you have any questions about this vacancy please contact: Zahid Padamsey Z: zp278@cam.ac.uk Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 years in the first instance. Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment and a security check. We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements. To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the apply button above. Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager. Closing date: 20th March 2024 Date of interview: To be confirmed Please quote reference RG40798 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.