Job Description

Are you an ambitious researcher looking for your next challenge? Do you have an established background in neuroscience? Do you want to further your career in one of the UK’s leading research intensive Universities?

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join the research teams of Dr Steven Clapcote (University of Leeds) and Dr Neil Dawson (Lancaster University) as part of the MURIDAE Cluster (https://nmgn.mrc.ukri.org/clusters/muridae/) of the MRC National Mouse Genetics Network (https://nmgn.mrc.ukri.org/). The research project will investigate the maturation of brain function in mouse models of known genetic risk factors for schizophrenia. Experimental approaches will include mouse behavioural analysis and functional brain imaging. A major aspect of the project will be its alignment with other MURIDAE projects, so the position will involve integration within a national collaborative network, which will bring additional opportunities for training and career development.

The position is funded in the first instance for 2 years, with the possibility of an extension for 18 months, dependent on us achieving project milestones. This post will involve collaborative working between the University of Leeds, Lancaster University and the Mary Lyon Centre at MRC Harwell (https://nmgn.mrc.ukri.org/the-mary-lyon-centre-at-mrc-harwell/). We anticipate that initial stages (2 years) of the project will be based largely at the Mary Lyon Centre, supervised by Dr Clapcote. This will be followed by a transition to work based more at Lancaster University, supervised by Dr Dawson, although there is some flexibility in these arrangements.

For this role you should have a PhD (or close to completion) in neuroscience or another relevant subject. You should also have experience of working with rodent models in a neuroscience context, and knowledge of research in neuroscience, particularly relating to neurodevelopmental or psychiatric disorders. 

The University of Leeds and the Faculty of Biological Sciences are committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offer a range of family friendly policies. The University is a charter member of Athena SWAN (the national body that promotes gender equality in higher education), and the Faculty of Biological Sciences was awarded a Silver award in 2020.  We are proud to be an inclusive Faculty that values all staff, and are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements from our employees. Our Athena SWAN webpage provides more information.

Dr Steven Clapcote, Lecturer in Pharmacology

Email: s.j.clapcote@leeds.ac.uk