Post-doctoral Research Associate in Applied Neurobiology at Keele University

18 months Fixed Term 

The Opportunity

This post represents an exciting opportunity to join an internationally recognised research team led by scientists from Keele University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences – based at the Robert Jones and Agnus Hunt Hospital (RJAH) in Oswestry. The Leverhulme Trust funded project aims to use cutting-edge proteomics technology to identify molecular signatures of two groups of neurons, which otherwise are indistinguishable, to help understand why they form very different connections in the developing brain and have completely diverse functions in the mature brain. 

The project will bring together national expertise in the field of proteomics (from St. Andrews University and Edinburgh University) with an international team of experts in fundamental neuroscience as advisors. The project builds on previous work undertaken by the team to identify changes in the brain that account for age-related degeneration, as well as unique molecular signatures of neurons in the developing and mature brain. The ultimate aim of the project is to investigate whether neurons that sit side-by-side can be readily distinguished from one another and have a molecular composition that allows one to be manipulated (for health benefits) without affecting the other. 

The successful candidate will take a lead role in supporting a range of technologies involved in the project including: preparation of tissue samples for proteomics analysis, handling large proteomics datasets, bioinformatics analysis, coordinating the use of proteomics facilities with external partners, and generating clear reports on the outcomes of the project. 

You will have (or expect to soon obtain) a PhD qualification in a relevant biomedical or life sciences discipline, along with experience of experimental work in a biomedical science and the ability to work effectively independently and within a team.

Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above.

The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible. 

The University

Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 12,500 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/

Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

How to Apply

For full post details and to find out more about working at Keele please visit: www.keele.ac.uk/vacancies

Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the ‘View current vacancies’ link.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr. Monte A. Gates (m.a.gates@keele.ac.uk). Applications to this address will not be accepted. 

Closing Date: 16th July 2023

Interviews will be held on: tbc