News

Studying sleep and EEG in transgenic mouse models of Huntington's disease - Research Assistant required

Studying sleep and EEG in transgenic mouse models of Huntington's disease:

Department/Location: Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience

Salary: £24,775-£28,695

Reference: PM05791

Category: Research

Published: 31 March 2015

Closing date: 10 May 2015

We are seeking a Research Assistant to study sleep and EEG in mouse models of neurodegenerative diseases. You will join an interdisciplinary research team that is interested in understanding neurological dysfunction in Huntington's disease (HD). HD is an incurable neurodegenerative genetic disorder that causes progressive deterioration of motion and cognitive function, as well as changes in psychiatric domains such as anxiety and depression. Recently, sleep and EEG abnormalities have also been identified in both HD patients and mouse models of the disease. The purpose of this project is to develop objective measures for understanding the mechanisms underlying the pathological changes found in HD with a special focus on sleep and EEG. The results will contribute to a larger project led by Professor Jenny Morton studying the effects of neurodegeneration in HD and interventions to prevent progression of the disease. The results will also have broad relevance to fields of animal behaviour and cognitive and systems neuroscience.

You will be part of a research team investigating sleep-wake behaviour and EEG in normal and transgenic mouse models of HD. Training in the use of EEG/EMG recording systems will be given.

The successful applicant will be a careful and methodical worker who is self-motivated and able to conduct experiments and analyse data independently. Careful observation skills and accurate record keeping are essential. Applicants should hold a Home Office personal licence.

Applicants must have a BSc degree (or equivalent), preferably with a background in Neuroscience. Experience in analysing EEG traces or behavioural testing would be an advantage. Familiarity with data analysis software such as MatLab, Spike 2 or SleepSign is highly desirable. The post will require some weekend work and a flexible approach to working hours.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 18 months in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy, please 'Apply' here. This will route you to the University's Web Recruitment System, where you will need to register an account (if you have not already) and log in before completing the online application form.

Please upload your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the post.

Please quote reference PM05791 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Further information

• Further particulars - PM05791

Posted on 02/04/2015