

Research Associate (Fixed Term)
We are looking for a highly motivated, proactive and enthusiastic postdoc to work on a Wellcome Trust funded project within the Galliano laboratory the University of Cambridge. Our research focuses on investigating how brain cells change in response to altered sensory inputs, and how such changes in brain cells underpin adaptation, learning and memory at the behavioural level. We use mice as model systems, and we probe the brain networks that encode their sense of smell. We are an inclusive, diverse and welcoming group, invested in open-science and outreach, and committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all members.
You will lead the design and delivery of patch clamp electrophysiology and single molecule imaging in the context of a project investigating how olfactory deprivation or enrichment prompt adaptive and associative plasticity in neurons within the olfactory bulb. You will also help setting up data analysis pipeline and contribute to generate a computational model of bulbar neurons. Your responsibilities will also include analysing previously-collected data, and write manuscripts and fellowships.
The successful candidate will have:
BSc and MSc in Life Science, Biology, Neuroscience or related disciplines.
PhD in Neuroscience.
Substantial expertise with patch-clamp electrophysiology in neurons.
Substantial expertise with imaging (confocal, two-colours single-molecule localization super-resolution microscopy, 3D super-resolution microscopy, single-particle tracking) and subsequent data analysis.
Experience molecular biology techniques.
Strong analytical skills and proficiency in quantitative analysis of large datasets in R, Matlab, or Python.
Desirable experience with computational modelling, e.g. building biophysical models in NERUON.
Proven track record of research leadership, as demonstrated by a publication record of preprints and published article.
Specific examples of excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a research team.
Specific examples of strong problem-solving abilities and instances demonstrating the capability to work independently as well as withing a team.
Appointments will be made on a fixed-term, full-time basis for 2 years in the first instance. We are open to discussing various patterns of part-time work to accommodate individual circumstances and/or caring responsibilities. The start date is moderately flexible, but ideally, we would like the position to commence in February 2026.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To ensure your application is as strong as possible, please follow the instructions carefully. Candidates should upload a CV (maximum 3 pages) and a cover letter addressing the following points:
Why you want to join our lab and lead this project.
How you align with the lab's values and philosophy, found here https://gallianolab.org/how-we-operate/
How this position will serve as a valuable stepping stone for your career.
How your previous experience has prepared you for the technical demands of this role.
-Your (brief) thoughts on the most interesting and yet unanswered questions in the fields of plasticity and olfaction.
We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.
While informal inquiries via email to Elisa Galliano are welcome, we will only consider applications submitted through the online application form and not those sent by email.
The closing date for applications is 6th October 2025.
Please quote reference PM47351 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience particularly encourages women and candidates from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background to apply for this vacancy.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Herchel Smith Professorship of Molecular Biology
The Board of Electors to the Herchel Smith Professorship of Molecular Biology invite applications for this Professorship to take up appointment on 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Peference will be given to persons whose work is connected with Integrative Molecular Biology, studying how molecules work when integrated into tissues and organisms, as outlined in the further particulars.
Candidates will have an outstanding research record of international stature in integrative molecular biology and the vision, leadership, experience and enthusiasm to build on current strengths in maintaining and developing a leading research presence. They will hold a PhD or equivalent postgraduate qualification.
Standard professorial duties include teaching and research, examining, supervision and administration. The Professor will be based in Cambridge. A competitive salary will be offered.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Further information is available at: http://www.hr.admin.cam.ac.uk/professorships or contact the Human Resources, University Offices, The Old Schools, Cambridge, CB2 1TT, (email: professorships@admin.cam.ac.uk).
Applications, consisting of a letter of application, a statement of current and future research plans, a curriculum vitae and a publications list, along with details of three referees should be made online no later than 17 November 2025.
Informal enquiries may be directed to Professor Sarah Bray Joint Head of Department Physiology Development and Neuroscience, Convenor of Board of Electors, tel: +44 (0)1223 765222, e-mail: sjb32@cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference PM47339 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Human Anatomy Centre Administrator (Part Time)
The Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience is seeking to appoint a self-motivated and enthusiastic person to join our friendly Human Anatomy Centre team. The facility delivers first and second year anatomy and neuroanatomy courses to an intake of around 320 pre-clinical medical students each year, and supports both research projects and external courses for a wide range of medical professionals. This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking for an interesting and varied role within a busy teaching environment.
You will be one of a team of six professional services staff members, reporting to the Human Anatomy Centre Manger, providing valuable support to help ensure the smooth running of the Centre. Duties will primarily include providing administrative support to the body donation programme and assisting with the implementation, audit and maintenance of Human Tissue Authority Standards within the Centre.
The successful candidate will have excellent communication skills, with the ability to deal professionally and efficiently with enquiries from students, colleagues and associated professionals, and will work well in a small and inclusive team. They will also be highly organised and have a flexible approach to work, with an ability to move between tasks at short notice to meet deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to manage databases of sensitive and confidential data is also essential. Familiarity with medical terminology would be useful, but training in the work of the Centre will be provided, and a lack of directly related experience is not a bar to applying.
This post is offered on a part time basis, 14 hours per week, Monday and Friday, working from the Human Anatomy Centre office.
For informal enquiries please contact the Department's HR team at pdnhr@pdn.cam.ac.uk who will be happy to direct your enquiry.
Apply:
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
On the online form, in the suitability for the role section, you should explain the reasons for your application and how your knowledge, skills and experience match the requirements of the role. The full contact details for two professional referees should be provided; one of whom should be your current line manager. Please note that we will assume that you are happy for us to approach your referees at any stage, unless you indicate otherwise in the space provided on the form.
Closing date: 5 October 2025.
Interviews will be held in person soon after the closing date.
Please quote reference PM47185 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Senior Research Laboratory Technician (Fixed Term)
The Clarke Lab is a neuroscience group based in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. Our research focuses on understanding the symptoms of psychiatric disease and we are an inclusive and welcoming group, committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all members.
The role is to support the research of Professor Hannah Clarke with behavioural, physiological and neuroimaging experiments, data collection and analysis, as well as in the preparation and histological assessment of tissue samples and perfusions.
We are looking for someone with a HNC/Degree in a biological subject and experience of laboratory-based biological scientific research and animal technology. You will be familiar with the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and the Codes of Practice for the housing and care of animals used in scientific procedures and have the ability to understand and observe the requirements applicable to the unit. You will have good IT skills and experience of data analysis, the ability to contribute to a multi-disciplinary research group and a willingness to learn.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a security check.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To apply for this post, please submit a CV, motivation letter detailing why you want to be part of this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.
The closing date for applications is 17th October 2025.
Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Professor Hannah Clarke (hfc23@cam.ac.uk)
Please quote reference PM47216 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Grants Coordinator (Fixed Term) Internal Secondment Opportunity
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced grants coordinator to undertake a secondment to join our small, friendly grants team in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience. The Department is engaged in research across a wide range of biological sciences and grant income amounts annually to around £10 million.
You will have experience of providing administrative support to researchers across the entire research grant lifecycle, however, experience in post award administration is essential. Knowledge of relevant funding bodies' terms and conditions would be advantageous but is not essential.
In addition to your grants-specific knowledge and experience, you will be a collaborator with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A proven ability to plan, prioritise and deliver to tight deadlines whilst working with a high degree of accuracy is also essential. For more information about the role and the person specification, please see the further particulars via the link below.
If you would like to apply your skills in a new environment and broaden your work experience, we would love to hear from you. Please reach out to Mandy Sherman, mls44@cam.ac.uk, with any informal enquiries about the role.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 6 months in the first instance.
The post is offered to internal candidates only on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
Apply:
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
On the online form, in the suitability for the role section, you should explain the reasons for your application and how your knowledge, skills and experience match the requirements of the role. The full contact details for two professional referees should be provided; please note that we will assume that you are happy for us to approach your referees at any stage, unless you indicate otherwise in the space provided on the form.
The closing date for applications is midnight on 31 August 2025. Interviews will take place shortly after the closing date.
Please quote reference PM46984 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Associate (Fixed Term)
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in cellular biophysics in the group of Prof. Ewa Paluch. The Paluch lab studies cellular morphogenesis combining cell and molecular biology, quantitative imaging and biophysical approaches to investigate cell shape changes in cultured cells and in vivo. Current projects in the lab include investigating the regulation of the mechanical properties of the cellular actin cortex, the biomechanics of cell division, and the coupling between cell shape and mechanics and state / fate during cellular transitions.
The successful candidate will conduct fundamental research aimed at understanding the nanoscale regulation of contractile tension in the actomyosin cortex. The aim of the project is to 1) develop new tools to quantitively characterise actin and myosin organisation at the cortex, and 2) investigate how actin-myosin nanoscale organisation changes during the cortical tension increase associated with mitotic entry.
You should hold a PhD (or about to be awarded a PhD) in Cell Biology, Cell Biophysics, or a related field and have extensive experience with cell and molecular biology, quantitative imaging and image analysis. Experience investigating cellular actin organisation will be considered an advantage.
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.
Further information on the lab: https://www.pdn.cam.ac.uk/directory/ewa-paluch and https://paluchlab.uk
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 April 2028 in the first instance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To apply for this post, please submit a CV and a motivation letter detailing why you want to be part of this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.
The closing date for applications is 19th August 2025.
Please quote reference PM46837 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Assistant (Fixed Term)
The Hanin Lab is a new group based in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. Our research explores the molecular mechanisms underlying lactation and early nutrition, and their impact on lifelong health. (https://haninlab.wixsite.com/hanin-lab ; https://www.pdn.cam.ac.uk/staff/hanin ).
We integrate cutting-edge mouse models with human breastmilk research and apply molecular and biochemical approaches to bridge physiology, developmental biology, metabolism, and genetics.
The lab takes a systems-level approach: studying the mother, the milk, and the offspring as an interconnected biological unit, to uncover how maternal physiology shapes the next generation.
We are seeking a passionate and motivated Research Assistant with wet-lab experience and a strong interest in molecular biology to join our team on an exciting MRC-funded project exploring the mechanisms that regulate lactation and early nutrition, and how these processes shape lifelong health.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an exciting and expanding area of research at the crossroads of physiology, metabolism, and developmental biology. The role involves working with both novel mouse models and human breastmilk samples to uncover the molecular mechanisms underpinning maternal-infant health.
Strong hands-on experience with molecular techniques is essential, particularly in DNA/RNA work, PCR, and basic biochemical and molecular assays. The successful candidate will also support the management of complex mouse colonies (including PCR genotyping), so prior experience with in vivo work is desirable and willingness to work with animal models is required.
Additional duties include preparing reagents, maintaining lab stocks, and contributing to the smooth running of the lab. We are looking for someone who is proactive, well-organised, and collaborative, with strong communication skills.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate initiative, responsibility, excellent organisational and have the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. We are committed to supporting professional development and would welcome candidates interested in progressing to doctoral (PhD) studies.
Candidates must hold a BSc degree (or Masters' degree) in a biological subject, and hands-on experience in areas relevant to molecular biology and physiology.
The ideal candidate will bring a solid foundation in molecular techniques, such as RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, protein isolation, Western blotting, and immunoprecipitation, and be eager to build on these skills in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.
Experience with flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, tissue processing, and microscopy is highly desirable, and prior work with mouse models is a strong advantage.
Willingness to engage in animal work is essential, and full training will be provided where needed.
You will play a central role in supporting both animal and human studies, contributing to the day-to-day running of experiments and laboratory operations. We are seeking someone who is highly organised, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks, including stock maintenance, data recording, and general lab management.
The successful candidate will also contribute to maintaining a safe and inclusive lab environment.
The Hanin Lab is committed to open science and to fostering a positive, supportive, and inclusive research environment. We are a small, collaborative group, committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all lab members. The postholder will contribute to departmental activities and will benefit from career development and training opportunities to support their long-term professional growth.
Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Dr Geula Hanin (ghl35@cam.ac.uk).
Fixed Term: the funds for this post are available for 1 year in the first instance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To apply for this post, please submit a CV and a motivation letter detailing why you want to be part of this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.
The closing date for applications is 1 September 2025.
Please quote reference PM46570 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Associate (Fixed Term)
The Hanin Lab is a new group based in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. Our research explores the molecular mechanisms underlying lactation and early nutrition, and their impact on lifelong health. (https://haninlab.wixsite.com/hanin-lab ; https://www.pdn.cam.ac.uk/staff/hanin ).
We integrate cutting-edge mouse models with human breastmilk research and apply molecular and biochemical approaches to bridge physiology, developmental biology, metabolism, and genetics.
The lab takes a systems-level approach: studying the mother, the milk, and the offspring as an interconnected biological unit, to uncover how maternal physiology shapes the next generation.
We are a small, collaborative and inclusive group, committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all lab members.
We are seeking an enthusiastic, dynamic and ambitious postdoc to join the lab for an exciting MRC-funded project investigating the mechanisms that govern lactation and early postnatal nutrition.
The postholder will lead a cutting-edge project focussed on maternal inter-organ communication during pregnancy and lactation with an emphasis on the mammary gland. This work will leverage a novel mouse model and offer opportunities to contribute to an unexplored field at the intersection of physiology, metabolism, and developmental biology.
Candidates must hold a PhD in a relevant biological subject with expertise in mouse models, as well as molecular and biochemical methodologies. A strong track record, including at least one high-quality peer-reviewed publication, is essential.
We're seeking a candidate with excellent communication and organisational skills, who thrives both independently and as part of a collaborative team. The successful applicant will be expected to actively engage with the broader scientific community, sharing their work through presentations, publications, and outreach, and to drive their project forward to successful completion and publication.
The Hanin Lab is committed to open science and to fostering a positive, supportive, and inclusive research environment. The postholder will contribute to departmental activities and will benefit from tailored career development and training opportunities to support their long-term professional growth.
Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Dr Geula Hanin (ghl35@cam.ac.uk).
Fixed Term: the funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.
Apply:
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To apply for this post, please submit a CV and a motivation letter detailing why you want to be part of this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.
The closing date for applications is 15 August 2025.
Please quote reference PM46566 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Assistant / Associate (Fixed Term)
The Tamura Lab for Circuit Physiology of Cognition is based in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience (PDN) of the University of Cambridge. Why can we easily notice a friend in a crowd and say 'Hello'? Previous neurophysiological studies have revealed how visual inputs are analysed, memorised and recalled, but how the recalled memory is then used to improve perception and make cognitive decisions remains poorly understood. We are investigating brain-wide neuronal circuits signalling object memory for guiding cognitive and perceptual decision makings by developing cutting-edge opto-physiological approaches to marmosets.
The common marmoset is a small non-human primate highly suited for advanced circuit interrogation techniques including high-density electrophysiology, optical imaging and optogenetics, and is developing into the next generation animal model to study physiology and pathology of cognitive functions. University of Cambridge has a world-renowned marmoset neuroscience facility equipped with a 9.4-Tesla MRI and a PET scanners, fully supported by experienced staff.
Your role as a creative circuit physiologist
We are looking for an ambitious and creative neurophysiologist to join our brand-new project. Collaborating with lab members and highly supportive marmoset community, you will establish wireless electrophysiology and optogenetics in freely behaving marmosets and reveal the memory circuits which inform perceptual and cognitive decision makings.
Your key experiences
You should have good skills in animal neurophysiology (electrophysiology, optogenetics, optical imaging, fibre photometry, etc.). Experiences in non-human primates, small animal MRI, wireless/wired neurophysiology in freely moving animals are excellent additions. Any backgrounds including biology, psychology, medicine, physics, engineering etc. are welcome but you will exercise your creativity through, establishing a new experimental paradigm, solving problems, and obtaining new data. You have to be a team player to further strengthen our marmoset research community in the University of Cambridge.
Grow together
Experiencing from synthetic chemistry, synapse electrophysiology, to cognitive neuroscience, working with mice, rats, marmosets and macaques, and living in Japan, Switzerland and United Kingdom, I believe that the depth and diversity of the team are the source of creativity to synthesise new ideas and go through barriers. I am keen to support your academic career development through fellowship/grant applications, presentation practices, paper writing, network building, and future job hunting, believing that your success is the success of the team. As a postdoc, you will enjoy various training and networking opportunities provided by the PDN, School of the Biological Sciences, and Postdoc Academy where I also serve as an independent mentor. You will also have opportunities to teach and mentor students for your academic development.
The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To apply for this post, please submit a single PDF file including a CV and a motivation letter detailing your scientific and career vision, what you have achieved so far, why you want to join our project, and how this post will move your career forward. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.
The closing date for applications is 10th August 2025.
Enquiries about the position can be made to the lab head: Dr Keita Tamura (kt532@cam.ac.uk).
Enquiries regarding the application procedure can be made to HR team (pdnhr@pdn.cam.ac.uk).
Please quote reference PM46478 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.