Research Fellow in Neuroscience at The Brighton and Sussex Medical School

Project: Hox genes and the diversification of neural networks

The Berni lab is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow interested in fundamental mechanisms of neuronal development.

Our research objective is to radically push forward our understanding on the mechanisms of circuit diversification of motor circuits during nervous system development.

We approach this from multiple perspectives, using cutting-edge technologies to analyze how Hox genes control the diversity of interneuron phenotypes, explore how this determines the establishment of specialized neuronal networks, and defines the functional roles of interneurons in generating behavior.

The post provides an outstanding opportunity to develop and apply research skills in developmental neuroscience using a range of techniques pioneered in the lab (calcium imaging, thermo-/opto- genetics, CRISPR/cas9, Drosophila behavioural experiments) as well as working with collaborators: Electron microscopy neuronal reconstructions with Prof. Albert Cardona (Univ. of Cambridge and MRC-LMB), and electrophysiology experiments with Prof. Richard Baines (Univ. of Manchester).

Candidates with evidence of scientific accomplishment in neuroscience or developmental neurobiology are encouraged to apply. Experience in calcium imaging or electrophysiology analysis are desirable. Experience working with Drosophila would be an advantage. The successful candidate should be capable of working independently on this project, whilst integrated into a highly collaborative and supportive research group, and wider neuroscience community of over 50 neuroscience researchers that organises a wide range of scientific and career development activities.

Please contact Dr Jimena Berni (J.Berni@sussex.ac.uk)  for informal enquiries.

Visit our website: https://www.bsms.ac.uk/about/contact-us/staff/dr-jimena-berni.aspx.

The University is committed to equality and valuing diversity, and applications are particularly welcomed from women and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine and Mathematics (STEMM) at Sussex.

For full details and how to apply, click the ‘Apply’ button above.                       

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Please note: The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed from the UK.