Research Associate in Visual Neuroscience

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Research Associate in Visual Neuroscience

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Mitochondria and Vision Research team in the School of Optometry & Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Science.

In this role, you will:

•    Join a multi-disciplinary group with an international reputation for studies into mitochondrial optic neuropathies and novel therapeutic interventions
•    Explore RGC structure and mitochondrial function
•    Utilise cellular models, including iPScells, molecular, biochemical and cellular assays and in vivo methodologies

We’d like to hear from you if you:

•    Have a postgraduate degree at PhD level (or nearing completion / submission) in a related subject area or relevant industrial experience
•    Have established expertise and a proven portfolio of research in cell biology and molecular neuroscience and have experience in murine models, histology and immunohistochemistry and cellular and tissue imaging modalities, including neural cell tracing and analysis
•    Have knowledge of the current status of research in mitochondrial biology

We can offer you the chance to work in a vibrant organisation, with great benefits and opportunities for progression. We are a proud Living Wage supporter.

This role is eligible to be offered on a blended working basis, meaning that as well as spending time working on campus you may spend some time working from another location, e.g. your home. The University is committed to offering this flexibility, wherever the role and business need allows, supporting work-life balance. 

Please contact Professor Marcela Votruba ([email protected]) for an informal, confidential discussion about the role.

This post is full-time and fixed-term for a period of 32 months. 

Salary: £39,347 - £44,263 per annum (Grade 6) 

Date advert posted: Tuesday, 2 January 2024

Closing date: Tuesday, 23 January 2024

Please be aware that Cardiff University reserves the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received.

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds.  We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age.  In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.

Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), which means that in hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published. More information is available at:  Responsible research assessment - Research - Cardiff University

Job Description

Main function 

To conduct research within the Mitochondria & Vision Group on inherited optic neuropathy for the project “RGC structure and mitochondrial function in LHON: the paradox of recovery and an extended therapeutic window”, as funded by Fight for Sight (Project Grant Award – Ref: 5204/5205), and to contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University, carrying out research leading to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.

Main duties and responsibilities 

Research 

•    To conduct research within cell and molecular biology and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University by the production of measurable outputs including bidding for funding, publishing in national academic journals and conferences, and the recruitment and supervision of postgraduate research students.
•    To develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research including research funding proposals
•    To attend and or present at conferences/seminars at a local and national level as required
•    To undertake administrative tasks associated with the research project, including the planning and organisation of the project and the implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting
•    To prepare research ethics and research governance applications as appropriate
•    To review and synthesise existing research literature within the field
•    To participate in School research activities.
•    To build and create networks both internally and externally to the university, to influence decisions,  explore future research requirements, and share research ideas for the benefit of research projects

Other 

•    To engage effectively with industrial, commercial and public sector organisations, professional institutions, other academic institutions etc., regionally and nationally  to raise awareness of the School’s profile, to cultivate strategically valuable alliances, and to pursue opportunities for collaboration across a range of activities. These activities are expected to contribute to the School and the enhancement of its regional and national profile.
•    To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance.
•    To participate in School administration and activities to promote the School and its work to the wider University and the outside world
•    Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria 

Qualifications and Education

1.    Postgraduate degree at PhD level (or nearing completion / submission) in a related subject area or relevant industrial experience

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

2.    An established expertise and proven portfolio of research and/or relevant industrial experience within the following research fields:
(i). cell biology and molecular neuroscience
(ii). murine models, histology and immunohistochemistry and cellular and tissue imaging modalities, including neural cell tracing and analysis

3.    Knowledge of current status of research in specialist field
4.    Proven ability to publish in national/international journals and / or present at national/international conferences and/or other research outputs 

Communication and Team Working

5.    Proven ability in effective and persuasive communication
6.    Ability to supervise the work of others to focus team efforts and motivate individuals

Other

7.    Proven ability to work without close supervision

Desirable Criteria 

1.    Hold a Home Office Personal Animal Licence and have evidenced competencies for working with mice, including but not limited to intra-vitreal injection, breeding and husbandry
2.    Experience with pre-clinical ocular imaging and electrophysiology
3.    Proven experience working with iPScells

Job Category

Academic - Research