Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Pre-clinical MRI Methods

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Pre-clinical MRI Methods to join the MRI Physics group at the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging (WIN, formerly FMRIB), NDCN. We have recently launched a research programme aiming to translate population imaging studies like the UK Biobank into the broader environment of basic and clinical neuroscience. We are now seeking someone to lead the pre-clincial (rodent) arm of this research programme.

The postholder will use rodent models to identify and interpret the cellular features that drive MRI signals. We will perform measurements in mice to identify the biological sources of MR-visible cellular “compartments”. For this, we will use sophisticated multi-dimensional quantitative MRI techniques alongside the acquisition of multiple histological immunostains in rodent tissue samples. These experiments, which aim to confer neurobiological meaning to the identified compartments, will be done in a range of mouse models with specific alterations to cellular features of interest (e.g., myelin).

These experiments will align to and be integrated with similar human experiments from our broader research programme. This will enable us: (i) to provide biophysically informed methods for “harmonising” human data in the UK Biobank to new settings, (ii) to precisely prediction how microstructural alterations alter MRI signals, and (iii) to design imaging protocols that are maximally sensitive to specific pathology.

The post holder will be expected to take an independent and proactive role in managing the research process, maintaining and setting up collaborations, and generating new research and grant opportunities. They will be responsible for supervising students and research assistants, both in relation to the postholder’s research project and related projects.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD/DPhil in Engineering, Physics or related subject. They will also have experience with MRI experimental techniques for studying rodent biology, including protocol development image acquisition, and signal modelling, with quantitative MRI, including diffusion, quantitative susceptibility mapping, quantitative MRI and structural imaging, and with light microscopy acquisition and analysis, including immunostaining, structure tensor analysis, semi-quantitative analysis.

Please see the below 'Job Description' for further details on the responsibilities and selection criteria, as well as further information about the university and how to apply.

This post is full time and fixed term for 3 years.

Only applications received before 12:00 midday on Monday 11th March 2024 will be considered.

Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.