Programme Leader Track - Neurobiology @MRC LMB, Cambridge

Job title: Programme Leader Track - Neurobiology 
Closing date: 20/12/2017 23:55
Location: The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge

Research Unit information: The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably X-ray crystallography of proteins, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies.  The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

With the new laboratory the LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation.

Salary: £49,637- £61,328 (Full time, permanent)

Job Description:

The recruitment campaign will remain open until the position is filled but applications received prior to 23rd July 2017 will receive priority.

Overall purpose: 

To direct an internationally competitive research programme within the Neurobiology Division relevant to the Laboratory of Molecular Biology’s (LMB) research portfolio, drawing on the collaborative inputs and team-working of other colleagues both within and outside MRC.

Main duties / key responsibilities: 

•  To develop and lead a programme of research into fundamental processes in molecular neurobiology, with a focus on synaptic function. 
•  To recruit and supervise a small team of PhD Students and Postdoctoral Fellows. 
•  To complete research projects in a timely manner and publish the results in leading scientific journals.
•  To present the results of the research at national and international conferences.
•  To contribute to LMB-wide activities relating to organisation of scientific activities and technological infrastructure. 
•  To contribute to scientific progress in the field as a whole by, for example, membership of expert committees, editing specialist journals, refereeing funding applications.
•  To contribute to the MRC’s engagement with the public and to other public communications initiatives.
•  To ensure that any intellectual property is protected and, where possible, translating the results of research into useful new approaches or treatments that improve human health.

Working relationships:

You will report to the Head of Division. As an independent Group Leader (Programme Leader Track) you will be expected to interact with Scientists and Support Staff within the Neurobiology Division and the rest of the LMB, and externally with members of the national and international research community.

Person Specification:

Education / Qualifications / Training required: 

Essential: 
•  A PhD in a relevant subject.
•  Significant publication record in relevant fields with clear emphasis on quality.

Previous work experience required: 

Essential: 
•  Experience in studying fundamental processes in molecular neurobiology.
•  Independent and internationally successful work as a Postdoc on a relevant subject.

Desirable: Application of advanced imaging methods in studying synaptic function in cells, neurons and/or neural networks.

Knowledge and experience: 

Essential: 
•  Research interests that fit well with the present and future science of the Division.
•  Experience of planning and developing projects or programmes of work, including the analysis of synaptic function and the application of advanced imaging techniques.

Desirable: 
•  Evidence of having influenced wider practice or knowledge in the field. 
•  A very ambitious or innovative research proposal.  

Personal skills/behaviours/qualities 

Essential: 
•  Demonstrated an ability to communicate science, both in writing and verbally. 
•  Experience of participating effectively in collaborations within home institute or externally.

Desirable: Experience of supervising team members effectively. 

The MRC is a great place to work and progress your career, be it in scientific research or the support functions.

The MRC is a unique working environment where our researchers are rewarded by world class innovation and collaboration opportunities that the MRC name brings. The MRC is an excellent place to develop yourself further and a range of training & development opportunities will be available to you, including professional registration with the Science Council.

Choosing to come to work at the MRC means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a final salary pension scheme and excellent holiday entitlement to access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme and childcare vouchers, as well as the chance to put the MRC on your CV in the future.

Our success is dependent upon our ability to embrace diversity and draw on the skills, understanding and experience of all our people. We welcome applications from all sections of the community irrespective of gender, race, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, disability or age. As "Disability Confident" employers, we guarantee to interview all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

Final appointments will be subject to pre-employment screening.

Contact Dr Michael Hastings for further information.

More information
Apply here

Posted on 10/07/2017