Overview
Why are brains the way they are? Do neural circuits function in an “optimal” way, and if so, in what sense are they optimal? How does the brain encode sensory information and form associative memories? Andrew Lin’s lab at the University of Sheffield is seeking up to two Research Associates to study these questions in the fruit fly Drosophila.
We study memory using a range of methods, such as in vivo two-photon calcium imaging, electrophysiology, fly genetics, behavioural experiments, computational modelling and building custom equipment. You will design, develop and perform experiments and data analysis (tailoring the project to your own interests and expertise), write papers, and present your work at conferences and seminars.
We seek self-motivated, innovative and creative candidates with a PhD (or be close to completion / have equivalent postdoctoral level experience) in a relevant field, expertise in at least some of the above techniques, excellent communication skills, and an ability to work independently and in a team. We encourage applications from diverse academic backgrounds, such as biology, neuroscience, experimental psychology, computer science, physics and engineering.
Main duties and responsibilities
Record neural activity in Drosophila using imaging and/or electrophysiology.
Design and carry out protocols to induce neuronal plasticity via learning and/or homeostatic plasticity.
Carry out behavioural experiments to measure learning and relate neural activity to behaviour.
Design and carry out Drosophila crossing schemes to create desired transgenic flies.
Analyse and record data using established methods and/or design new custom methods for data analysis.
Set up and maintain lab equipment.
Prepare papers for journals/presentations either in-hours or at national/international conferences or seminars to disseminate research findings.
Write supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the Research Group, e.g., manuscripts for publication and grant applications.
Plan for specific aspects of the research programme.
If given a particular hypothesis to examine, plan for own contribution up to 3 months ahead, incorporating issues such as the availability of resources, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims. Design individual experiments weekly.
Co-ordinate and liaise with other members of the research group over work progress.
Supervise research team/activities if required.
Continuously monitor and check results. The unpredictability of research means that daily planning needs to accommodate new developments.
Read academic papers, journals and textbooks and attend conferences to keep abreast of developments.
Contribute to the supervision of PhD students and other team members within the group.
Carry out administrative roles as required, e.g., ordering reagents.
As a member of staff you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
Actively contribute to a culture in the research group and wider School where all staff and students are treated fairly, feel welcome, and are able to flourish professionally or academically.
Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
PhD (or be close to completion / have equivalent postdoctoral level experience) in a relevant field
Significant scientific experience acquired through application in a working environment in some of the following:
Live in vivo calcium imaging
Drosophila genetics
Electrophysiology
Behavioural experiments
Computer programming / computational modelling of neural circuits
Designing and building custom equipment
Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations
Ability to work collaboratively as a member of a team as well as independently
Ability to solve technical and scientific problems
Ability to develop scientific questions and to initiate, lead, organise and complete scientific projects
Ability to keep up to date with ongoing research and new skills in the relevant subject area
Experience of developing and maintaining a network of interactions and working at the cutting edge of your field
Evidence of working practices that align with good practice with respect to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and positive wellbeing
Further Information
£38,784 - £47,389 per annum
Fixed-term, available immediately to 10 October 2029
Senior Lecturer (Group leader)
If you do not currently hold the right to work in the UK, you can find more information here to help determine your visa eligibility. Additional guidance is also available on the UK Visa & Immigration website.
School of Biosciences
Lin Lab
Dr Andrew Lin
For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Andrew Lin (Senior Lecturer & Group Leader) at
[email protected] or on 0114 222 3643
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date. This will consist of a 10-minute presentation about your work followed by 20 minutes of questions. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process, please contact
[email protected].
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision ().
What we offer
A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
Generous pension scheme.
A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes.
A range of generous family-friendly policies
paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
support for those going through the menopause
paid time off and support for fertility treatment
and more
We are a Disability Confident Leader (opens in a new window). If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
