Overall purpose:
To lead on a range of projects within the group of Dr Albert Cardona at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), as part of an overall programme aimed at studying the neural circuit basis of behaviour. Specifically, to map the synaptic wiring diagram, or connectome, of whole brains, designing, building and using machine learning approaches to computer vision as applied to volume electron microscopy of whole brains.
Inspire ideas for research in the context of the work of the Neurobiology Division.
To play a major role in the work of the research group, through the conduct of research, introduction of new ideas, dissemination of research results, support and training of others.
Contribute to the strategic development of the group and of the Division overall.
To be a focus of expertise on computational data analysis, image processing, systems administration and software engineering as relate to the day-to-day operations of a neuroscience research laboratory acquiring and analysing data from electron microscopes and other imaging modalities.
Main duties:
• Under the general leadership of the Group Leader, to be responsible for all aspects of the research projects, including defining the direction of the work, conducting the research, analysing the data, preparing the work for publication and disseminating the results at meetings.
• To present your work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
• To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the laboratory, particularly in the use of new techniques or new equipment.
• To contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
• To disseminate research findings in the form of publications, presentations, and reports and thus support the QQR mission of the division.
• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
• To keep up to date with developments in the field, proposing or implementing changes of direction as necessary.
• To train students, Postdoctoral Scientist and others and line management of group members where appropriate.
• To contribute to the MRC's engagement with the public and in the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
Key responsibilities:
The key responsibility is to undertake cutting edge research, aimed at key questions within the remit of the research group. You will be expected to provide the intellectual energy and independent thinking necessary to deliver the research and to play a major role in shaping the overall aims and success of the group.
You will be expected to have the skill and understanding to be able to act independently in solving problems, many of which may require novel approaches. This will require the integration of different activities to ensure the successful delivery of the research projects.
To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches.
To interact effectively with a wide range of staff, students and others to ensure the smooth running of the research group. This will include setting an example in the effective use of resources, training others in methods and use of equipment and taking responsibility for the use of communal facilities.
To take on responsibility for managing equipment.
To write scientific papers and to present at internal meetings and at conferences.
To ensure the research is conducted in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.
To recognise opportunities for the creation of intellectual property and to cooperate in patent protection and in exploitation.
To secure appropriate external funding and hence staffing and resources for the project, to include preparing grant applications for external funding and developing protocols.
To manage existing collaborations, and establish new collaborations, both within the division and the LMB and with external establishments.
To have a broad, balanced and informed perspective of current scientific issues especially those pertaining directly to the area of software engineering and systems administration in their application to neuroscience research, in particular volume electron microscopy-based connectomics.
To agree the overall strategic direction of your research. You will be expected to take managerial and budgetary responsibility for your research projects, especially the procurement of external funding.
Line management responsibilities will be undertaken; these responsibilities, to include staff development and performance management, should be applied in accordance with UKRI's policies and procedures. Training will be given if necessary.
Working relationships:
You will report to Dr Albert Cardona and will liaise with other Research Support staff, Postdoctoral Scientists and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external collaborators.