View Vacancy -- Scientific Researcher - Neurobiology - Dr Jing Ren - LMB 2678

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation.

Overall purpose:

To work within the Group of Dr Jing Ren at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) within a programme aimed at revealing how the serotonin system is assembled during development and the consequences when it is disrupted.

The Ren lab has used whole-brain tissue clearing, light-sheet imaging, and machine learning to map the spatial and temporal dynamics of serotonin axon development. This project aims to establish a high-resolution imaging pipeline by incorporating expansion microscopy (ExM) into our existing workflow. The goal is to visualise serotonergic wiring at subcellular resolution across developmental stages, enabling analysis of how circuit assembly is altered when crucial wiring regulators are disrupted.

Main duties:

• To undertake research aimed at mapping serotonin circuit development by tissue clearing and expansion microscopy.

• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.

• To present scientific work at seminars within the Laboratory and at external meetings.

• To contribute to Laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field.

• To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.

• To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.

• To assist the general lab management.

Key responsibilities:

To plan your own work and objectives and manage your experimental work within the project along with your Supervisor.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.

To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, taking responsibility for use of communal facilities, assisting general lab and mouse colony management.

Working relationships:

You will report to Dr Jing Ren and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary.

Academic qualifications:

These should include a PhD in neuroscience, psychiatry or a related field, or due to complete PhD within 6 months.

Technical skills and expertise:

Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project including basic biochemistry and molecular biology skillsets.

Particularly useful would be the experience of the following:

1) Advanced microscope working experience.

2) Working experience with rodent models. Preferable if mouse genetics and mouse colony management is involved.

Track record of research:

This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of:

• Commitment.

• Originality.

• Ability to communicate.

• Working with others.

Application information:

Candidates are required to submit a full CV and covering letter.

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI: 
•    Code of Conduct
•    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
•    Health and Safety policy
•    Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal.  Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post.  All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.  

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.