1 Postdoctoral Research position in Neurobiology - Neuropeptide Signalling Systems in UK | Queen Mary University of London - School of Biological and Chemical Sciences

A Postdoctoral Research Assistant position is available at Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL) with Professor Maurice Elphick, working on neuropeptide biology.

QMUL is one of the UK’s leading research-focused higher education institutions, with a budget of £285 million per annum.

The Elphick group is world-leading for research on the evolution and comparative physiology of neuropeptide signalling systems, using echinoderms (e.g. starfish) as model experimental systems. Prof. Elphick pioneered this field of research (Elphick et al. 1991; Proc. Roy. Lond. B 243, 121-127) and he is now leading a new era of research using next generation sequence data as a basis for functional analysis of neuropeptide evolution and diversity in the animal kingdom (e.g. Semmens et al., J. Exp. Biol. 216, 4047-4053).

Neuropeptides are often produced and released as a “cocktail” of non-identical but structurally related forms; however, the functional significance of this phenomenon is not known. In this Leverhulme Trust funded project, this issue will be addressed using a newly discovered model system in starfish comprising fifteen SALMFamide-type neuropeptides (Elphick et al. 2013 PloSOne e59076). Important features of this model are several in vitro and in vivo bioassays, which will be harnessed to address the question: is there a message in the mix when neuropeptides are secreted as “cocktails”?

The successful candidate will have a PhD or equivalent in biological sciences, with a solid grounding in comparative physiology and/or neurobiology and/or pharmacology. During the project the PDRA will have opportunities to develop their supervision, writing, communication and organisational skills. Duties may also include assisting in the training and supervision of PhD and final year project students.

The position is full time and available for 24 months. The salary will be in the range of £31,113 - £36,544 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. Salary will be according to qualifications, skills and experience. Benefits include 30 days annual leave, defined benefit pension scheme and interest-free season ticket loan.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.

The closing date for applications is 28th February 2014. Interviews will be held in March 2014.