Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Contract Type - Fixed-Term 1 year with possible extension to 2 years

We are looking for a postdoctoral Research Fellow to study mechanisms of astrocyte ingestion of synapses and the role this plays in synaptic degeneration in Alzheimer’s disease. The fellow will be based in the UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) at the University of Edinburgh, working in a project funded by a UK DRI industry collaborator which is led by Prof Tara Spires-Jones and Dr Claire Durrant.

The Opportunity:

This is an excellent opportunity to be a part of the UK DRI, which leads the UK’s dementia research effort to deliver a step-change in the scientific understanding of dementias (for more information, see https://ukdri.ac.uk/about-us ). The successful candidate will conduct original research, produce material for publication and dissemination, and work as a member of a research team including training students in research techniques.  Note, this advert covers 2 complementary posts with overlapping skillset and candidates will be considered for both positions.

Your skills and attributes for success:

• PhD or other higher level degree (MD/PhD, etc) earned or expected in a relevant discipline (neuroscience, biology, etc)
• Expertise in relevant experimental approaches and models, analytical techniques and methods.
• Experience with cell/tissue culture and sterile technique, specifically culturing astrocytes OR organotypic slice cultures, manipulating gene expression in cell culture, and performing phagocytosis assays highly desirable
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly, orally and in writing.