Research Fellow in Neurobiology - AR2247NB

Start Date: As soon as possible Fixed term until 1 March 2023

Applications are sought for a committed Research Fellow to work with Dr Wen-Chang Li.  

It is widely known that the activity of a neural network is shaped by its connectome. However, this structure-function relationship is not fixed and may change dynamically. In frog tadpoles, motor circuits that generate forward swimming can produce backward-thrusting struggling if the tadpole is held. Whereas swimming involves a wave of muscle contractions propagating from head to tail, struggling is a slower but powerful rhythm that propagates from tail to head. Continuous sensory inputs trigger reconfiguration in tadpole motor circuit by recruiting additional groups of neurons while depressing the activity of other groups of neurons (Li et al., 2007; Li 2015, J Neurosci). Such recruitment/de-recruitment is achieved through changes in the biophysical properties of the neurons and their synapses. We will define these biophysical changes and determine how they reconfigure motor circuits. The main techniques to be used are visually-guided current- and voltage-clamp whole-cell recordings similar to those used on brain slices, calcium imaging, dynamic clamping and optogenetics.  

Previous training in electrophysiology is essential and experiences in microscopic dissections are desirable. This project will involve close collaboration with Dr Joel Tabak-Sznajder in the University of Exeter and Prof Roman Borisyuk in Plymouth University to help them build computational models of both swimming and struggling circuitry and analyze the dynamics of their transition. There is also opportunity to get some undergraduate teaching experience if desired.   

The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in Neuroscience or similar discipline.  

The post is available until 1 March 2023 starting as soon as possible.  

Further details of the research can be found at https://risweb.st-andrews.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/wenchang-li(3df3bd33-5a09-455f-99f3-555a4d137dba).html   

Informal inquiries to Dr Wen-Chang Li e-mail: [email protected]  

Applications are particularly welcome from women, people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in research posts at the University.    

Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience.  We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter, Race Charters and Stonewall). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network.  Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/  

Closing Date: 20 January 2022      

Please quote ref: AR2247NB    

Further Particulars: AR2247NB FPs.doc