About the role

Research in the Division of Neuroscience addresses mechanisms that underpin nervous system functions and diseases. Investigators in the Division are exploring these through combinations of neurophysiological, anatomical, molecular, cellular and computational approaches, using pre-clinical models and clinical studies.

The post is funded by the Human Frontiers Science Programme aims to investigate the cross-talk between microbial-dependent immunity in the skin, the largest and most innervated organ in our body, and the peripheral nervous system, for the control of sensory signals affecting nociception and spinal sensorimotor integration across the lifespan. This research program aims to address the following fundamental questions: (i) how does the microbiome that shapes immunity in the skin regulate neural signaling and activity? (ii) how does neural activity in turn regulate the skin immune and microbial microenvironments? (iii) what are the neurophysiological implications of this cross-talk? Our studies will reveal a new biological paradigm for bidirectional cell-cell communication across systems, barriers, and species within the well-defined anatomical system stemming from skin innervation.

What you would be doing

Research Duties:

Characterisation of neuronal repair mechanisms, collection and analysis of data
To perform the analysis of data
To always ensure the validity and reliability of data
To maintain accurate and complete records of all findings
To assist with the writing of reports to research sponsors
To present findings to colleagues
To provide advice to other staff and students
To assist with the publication of findings
To attend relevant workshops and conferences as necessary
To develop contacts within the College and the wider community
To promote the reputation of the Group, the Department, and the College

Other Duties:

To assist with general laboratory activities
To undertake any necessary training and/or development
To undertake appropriate administration tasks
To attend relevant meetings

Where Imperial or funder conditions necessitate, you will be required to complete timesheets for your work on projects in a timely manner.

What we are looking for

You will have a PhD in neuroscience, cellular/molecular biology or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience. We will accept applications from those who have submitted their thesis and awaiting their PhD award.

Practical experience within a research environment and/or publication in relevant and refereed journals
Experience in dealing with a diverse scientific environment
Practical experience in a broad range of techniques including related to neurobiology and immunology
Practical experience within a research environment and/or publication in relevant and refereed journals
Knowledge of gene expression analysis
Knowledge of research methods and statistical procedures
Knowledge of research immunoblotting
Knowledge of in vivo animal experimentation, preferentially nerve and spinal injuries
Ability to conduct a detailed review of recent literature
Ability to develop and apply new concepts
Creative approach to problem-solving
Excellent verbal communication skills and the ability to deal with a wide range of people
Excellent written communication skills and the ability to write clearly and succinctly for publication
Ability to organise own work with minimal supervision
Willingness to travel both within the United Kingdom and abroad to conduct research and attend conferences

What we can offer you

The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution
Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year)

Further information

This post is full time, fixed term for 3 years and you will be based on site at Hammersmith Campus.

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £41,694 – £44,888 per annum

Any questions about the role can be directed to Professor Simone di Giovanni ([email protected]).

Available documents

Attached documents are available under links. Clicking a document link will initialize its download.

download: Research Associate in Neuroscience Job Description.pdf

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