Research Associate in Neuroimmunology

A new and exciting opportunity is available in the Quintana lab to explore how the immune system controls sleep, and more broadly, circadian behaviour during chronic challenges. We seek to appoint an outstanding postdoctoral researcher with a strong background and proven track record in neurosciences that will join a multidisciplinary team of immunologists and infection biologists. The candidate will work across disciplines to address fundamental questions in neuroimmunology and behaviour. Therefore, the ideal candidate is expected to have a ambition to expand their skillsets into other complementary disciplines whilst in the lab.

The successful candidate will undertake postdoctoral activities in the areas of neurosciences and neuroimmunology, and related cross-disciplinary research. This would be expected to include independently formulating hypothesis and conducting original research utilizing various animal models and techniques including, but not limited to, in vitro and in vivo electrophysiology (e.g., whole cell patch clamp, field recordings), chemogenetics, optogenetics, stereotactic surgeries, behavioural tests in mice, imaging, 3D cell image reconstruction, amongst others.

The Research Associate would be expected to work alongside the PI to conceptualize studies and design experiments, and to work towards the publication of their findings in appropriate journals. Moreover, the role involves contributing to the team science by supporting other lab members and undergraduate trainees intellectually and practically - and through collaborative work with internal and external collaborators. The appointed candidate will also be supported to explore all the opportunities available locally, nationally, and internationally for career development, from applying to relevant fellowships to acquiring transferable skills of interest.

This post is initially for 24 months, with funds available to extend the contract for another 36 months depending on satisfactory progression.

The lab ethos is of curiosity, passion, inclusion, humility, and teamwork, and so the successful candidate is expected to operate and thrive under such values. Additionally, the ideal candidate will have demonstrable knowledge of neuroscience, behaviour and related areas, and therefore experience with murine models is essential. Women and underrepresented minorities (e.g., POC, LGBTQ+) are particularly and strongly encouraged to submit their applications.

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 CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Dr. Juan F. Quintana

Email: juan.quintana@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.