Research Associate in Molecular mechanisms x 2 (Fixed Term)

We are looking for a highly motivated post-doctoral scientist and a lab manager to join the laboratory of Dr. Sumru Bayin at the Gurdon Institute, and the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. You will work in the Bayin Lab to explore the molecular mechanisms of neural stem cell behaviours during cerebellum development and upon injury using various techniques including but not limited to single cell genomics, and in vivo and in vitro stem cell assays, organoid models and mouse genetics.

The Bayin Lab is interested in identifying the molecular mechanisms that regulate self-renewal, differentiation and plasticity of neural stem/progenitor populations during development and homeostasis, in order to discover how to stimulate repair of the brain upon injury. The cerebellum, which is a folded hindbrain structure that is important for skilled motor movements and higher order cognitive functions, has emerged as a powerful system to study the regenerative responses in the brain. We have previously shown that the cerebellum can recover from the loss of at least two types of neurons via distinct regenerative mechanisms (Wojcinski, Nature Neuroscience, 2017; Bayin, eLife, 2018; Bayin, Science Advances, 2021, Bayin and Joyner, Development, 2022). However, the full repertoire of molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate neonatal cerebellar development and injury response remain to be studied. Importantly, the regenerative potential of the neonatal cerebellum dramatically
decreases once development ends, despite the presence of stem-like cells in the adult mouse cerebellum. This project involves using in vivo and in vitro approaches to identify mechanisms that control the developmental and regenerative responses of cerebellar progenitors in neonates and determine how it differs in adults in order to understand how we can facilitate efficient repair after injury to the brain. A variety of other projects on neural stem cell biology during brain development and pathologies are possible, depending on the candidate's interest and background.

Applicants must have (or expect to obtain) a PhD (or equivalent) in biological sciences, preferably in cell, developmental biology or in genetics. A strong background in molecular biology, stem cell biology and an interest in bioinformatics is required for the postdoctoral research post, and experience in genetics and in vivo models is desired. The lab manager is expected to do ordering, mouse colony management, lab organisation and maintenance, in addition to helping others with their projects when needed. Experience in histology, cell culture and molecular biology is required.

Importantly, we are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic team member who is a critical thinker, can work independently and has excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively within and outside of the laboratory and promote a positive research culture within the laboratory.

Successful candidates who have not been awarded their PhD by the appointment date will be appointed as a Research Assistant at Grade 5 (£33,882-£34,866 per annum). Upon award of the PhD the individual will be promoted to Research Associate, Grade 7 (£36,924-£45,163 per annum).