Research Associate (Insect Neuroscience)

How does a photoreceptor synapse use mechanical motion to improve information transfer? Mikko Juusola's lab at the University of Sheffield is seeking a Research Associate to study this question in the fruit fly Drosophila.

We study ultrafast morphodynamic adaptation in photoreceptor synapses to light changes

using a range of methods, such as insect visual neuroscience/behaviour, image/video analyses, in vivo electrophysiology, fly genetics, flash-freezing Drosophila under controlled illumination, electron microscopy and computational modelling, often engineering custom equipment to suit our needs. You will design, develop and perform experiments and data analysis to elucidate how rapid ultrastructural changes, including mechanical movements, affect synaptic information processing and transfer. This work will also entail writing papers and presenting your findings at conferences and seminars. This research project is in collaboration with Professor Paul Verkade's laboratory at the University of Bristol.

We seek self-motivated, innovative and creative candidates with a PhD in a relevant field (or

equivalent experience) along with significant scientific experience acquired through application in a working environment in some of the following: Insect neuroscience/behaviour; Electrophysiology; Data/image/video analysis; Drosophila genetics; Electron microscopy; Computer programming / computational modelling of neural/synaptic functions; Designing and building custom equipment. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and in a team are also essential. We encourage applications from diverse academic backgrounds, such as biology, neuroscience, experimental psychology, computer science, physics and engineering.