About usThe Neural Computation Laboratory (NCL), led by Professors Beverley Clark and Dr Arnd Roth, is part of the Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research at UCL. The group’s research focuses on understanding computations in neural circuits during behaviour. To this end, the group is combining experimental and theoretical approaches to examine computations in cortical and cerebellar circuits. Over the past decade we have been developing new strategies for probing the function of single neurons and networks of neurons in the intact mammalian brain. We have considerable experience in combining a wide range of techniques, from patch-clamp recordings, two-photon imaging, the use of transgenic mouse lines and genetically encoded calcium sensors, through to electron microscopy for tracing the wiring diagram of the underlying circuits.Please note this post is not eligible for visa sponsorship due to the salary threshold criteria and a current right to work is therefore required.About the roleThis is an excellent opportunity for an applicant already experienced in mouse breeding and management of transgenic colonies to extend their skills in the research environment and contribute to cutting edge research in cellular and systems neuroscience. The postholder will manage 10 transgenic mouse lines and will be responsible, as part of a cross-lab team, for operational and practical aspects of running a multi-user serial 2-photon tomography facility (‘Rocksaw’, used for automated serial sectioning and imaging of whole brains). When trained, the postholder will act as trainer to other researchers to operate and troubleshoot ‘Rocksaw’ and will prepare and run samples for projects in the NCL. They will also help revise and oversee standard operating procedures for use of this facility. They will be responsible for preparing and maintaining standard operating procedures for animal work under the current Home Office Licence and will have opportunities to learn animal behavioural training and surgical procedures. They will assist in the day-to-day running of the laboratory; monitoring and maintaining stocks of lab consumables, preparing solutions, and providing support for experiments being carried out by research staff and PhD students. This role will include ensuring that health and safety policies are followed, and that the lab remains a clean and safe environment in which to work.About youThe postholder will preferably have experience with mouse breeding, genotyping and troubleshooting including complex triple transgenic strains and hold a Home Office Personal Licence to work with rodents. In addition, the post-holder is expected to have experience in histological methods, microscopy and imaging, and in molecular biology techniques such as DNA extractions and PCR. The successful candidate will be energetic, well organised, and able to work effectively with other people as well as taking the initiative for their own independent work. They must be willing to learn a variety of practical techniques as required to support the scientific projects within the research group.What we offerAs well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) • Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme • Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan • Immigration loan • Relocation scheme for certain posts • On-Site nursery • On-site gym • Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay • Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service • Discounted medical insurance Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and InclusionAs London’s Global University, we knowdiversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community torepresent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality ofopportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we allbelong. We therefore particularly encourageapplications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’sworkforce. These include people from Black, Asian andethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silveraward, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancinggender equality.Available documents
