The School of Medical Sciences is looking to appoint a Research Associate for the following project:
Project title: Mechanisms underlying neuronal-microglia interactions during development in health and disease
Project Description: The formation of the brain involves a diverse population of cell types undergoing a precise sequence of developmental processes, coming together to create a well-functioning brain. Such a modular approach provides each cell type the greatest autonomy to develop and evolve. Nonetheless, some level of coordination is required to ensure that the correct proportion of cells are present for normal cortical function.
Pyramidal neurons and microglia originate from two separate lineages, namely the neuroectoderm and mesoderm, respectively. In spite of this difference, the regulation of the appropriate proportion of microglia is key in maintaining normal neuronal function, especially as microglia have been shown to be involved in all aspects of neurodevelopment. Dysregulation of microglia proportion has been linked to neurodevelopment disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The question therein lies with what determines the establishment of this proportion? In this project we will determine the role of microglia-neuronal communication in the establishment of the appropriate number of microglia during development and how uncoupling of this communication is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders
Post Description
You will be unravelling the molecular mechanisms underlying the establishment of the appropriate number of microglia in the developing mouse cortex by using cutting-edge technologies such as bulk and single-cell sequencing, fixed and live tissue imaging and by performing animal surgeries. These complementary approaches will provide new and exciting insights into the cell biological mechanisms of neuronal-microglia interactions during early postnatal development
You will interact closely with the principal investigator and will be expected to contribute intellectually and take ownership of the project. In addition, although you will be based in Manchester, short visits to collaborators may be required for data acquisition and project development. Finally, you will also be expected to attend appropriate training and workshops in order to strengthen and expand your skill sets.
The School is committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The School holds a Bronze Award for their commitment to the representation of women in the workplace and we particularly welcome applications from women for this post. All appointments will be made on merit. For further information, please visit:
https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/about/equality/
Blended working arrangements may be considered
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Fong Kuan Wong
Email : fongkuan.wong@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: hrservices@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
Email: universityofmanchester@helpmeapply.co.uk
Tel: 0161 850 2004
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
