Research Associate in the Evolution and Neurobiology of Sleep

Location: South Kensington Campus

About the role:

Are you interested in uncovering the evolutionary origins of sleep?

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join a newly established laboratory at Imperial College London led by Dr Marios Chatzigeorgiou. Funded through a Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) international collaboration, you will help investigate how sleep evolved by studying tunicates, the closest living relatives of vertebrates, and comparing them with animals that lack nervous systems altogether.

The project combines neuroscience, behaviour, evolution, imaging and computational biology within an ambitious collaboration spanning Imperial College London, La Trobe University and the University of Miami.

What you would be doing:

You will:

• Lead research investigating sleep-like states in Ciona intestinalis and Oikopleura dioica.
• Apply advanced behavioural analysis and machine-learning approaches to quantify animal behaviour.
• Use neural imaging, molecular and physiological approaches to understand how sleep is controlled in a simple chordate nervous system.
• Analyse large behavioural and imaging datasets.
• Investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying sleep in Ciona and Oikopleura.
• Generate transgenic Cionas and help rear Ciona and Oikopleura.
• Publish findings in leading international journals.
• Present work at international conferences.
• Work closely with collaborators in Australia and the United States.
• Help supervise students and contribute to the growth of a new research group at Imperial.

What we are looking for:

We are looking for a scientist who has:

• A PhD in neuroscience, neurobiology or a related discipline.
• Strong publication potential or publication record.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
• Strong experience in microscopy including calcium imaging
• Strong experience in working with model organisms
• Experience with behavioural analysis.
• An enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.

Desirable experience includes:

• Experience in molecular techniques like in situ hybridisation
• Experience in transgenesis.
• Experience in working with marine organsims.
• Computer vision and machine learning.

What we can offer you:

• Opportunity to work on a highly original HFSP-funded project addressing fundamental questions in biology.
• Close collaboration with internationally recognised experts in sleep biology and oceanography.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• As a member of research staff you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 43 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have not yet been officially awarded will be appointed as a Research Assistant.

This is a full-time post (35 hours per week).

This role is for a fixed-term contract until 30 November 2029.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact:

Dr. Marios Chatzigeorgiou – m.chatzigeorgiou@imperial.ac.uk.