We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work within the Group of Dr. Clémence Blouet at the Institute of Metabolic Science, within a programme aimed at understanding the mechanisms through which central nutrient sensing contributes to metabolic homeostasis. Our group employs a multi-disciplinary approach coupling calcium imaging to characterize the neurophysiology of metabolic-sensing neurons, discrete manipulations of brain neurocircuits and nutrient sensing pathways using cutting-edge molecular genetics, and refined functional assessments in model organisms to characterize how nutrients are detected by the brain to maintain energy homeostasis in health and disease.

This position offers an ideal opportunity for a highly motivated scientist wishing to develop their career in the neurobiology of energy balance within a world-class research environment.

In this role, you will undertake both laboratory-based work (standard molecular biology, confocal microscopy, FACS, primary neuronal culture) and model organism based studies. You will have the ability to effectively use neuroscience techniques such as stereotaxic surgery and a sound knowledge of metabolic phenotyping. You will process brain tissues for multiple fluorescent labelling and use confocal microscopy to analyse brain sections. You will be expected to:

• Collect and analyse data
• Ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements
• Identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue your research objectives
• Contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field
• Present scientific work at internal and external seminars and meetings
• Draft scientific papers and contribute to overall preparation of research for publication
• Assist in training students and other members of the laboratory.
• Identify funding sources to support your future work and career development opportunities.

To be considered for this position, you must:

• Possess a Ph.D. in neuroscience, physiology, genetics, cell biology, or a related field
• Have a publication record that demonstrates scientific rigor and productivity
• Have skills in working independently to solve experimental problems.
• Be self-motivated, creative, and curious
• Possess excellent record-keeping, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

You should have experience with:

• Metabolic phenotyping in model organisms
• Brain histology and imaging
• Aseptic surgery in model organisms

Applicants should also be eligible for a Home Office Personal Licence

Proposed start date: 21st March 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 24 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment and a security check.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit:

www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/9366. This will take you to the role on the University’s Job Opportunities pages. There you will need to click on the 'Apply online' button and register an account with the University's Web Recruitment System (if you have not already) and log in before completing the online application form.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr. Clémence Blouet, Metabolic Research Laboratories, Level 4, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Box 289 Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ. Email: csb69@medschl.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference RG08214 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.