⛔ This position is no longer available.
University: University of Birmingham
Country: United Kingdom
Deadline: 2026-04-26 (postdoc); 2026-05-03 (PhD/RA)
Fields: Neuroscience, Behavioural Science, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Computational Biology
Are you passionate about uncovering how the brain navigates complex behavioural choices, and eager to contribute to cutting-edge neuroscience research in a collaborative, international environment?
The University of Birmingham is offering multiple positions—three postdoctoral fellowships and one research assistant/PhD studentship—within a Wellcome Trust-funded programme, “Decoding Competition in the Brain,” led by Prof. Carolina Rezaval. These roles provide a unique opportunity to explore the neural mechanisms underlying behavioural conflict, leveraging advanced techniques and interdisciplinary approaches.
About the University or Research Institute
The University of Birmingham, located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, UK, is one of the country’s leading research-intensive institutions. With a rich heritage dating back to 1900, it is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of UK universities. The university is renowned for its world-class research, innovative teaching, and dynamic campus life. Its School of Biosciences and Neuroscience community are internationally recognized for their pioneering contributions to understanding brain function and behaviour. Students and researchers at Birmingham benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, strong academic support, and a diverse, global academic community. The university’s central UK location also offers excellent connectivity to other major research hubs across Europe, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
Research Topic and Significance
The central focus of this programme is to elucidate how the brain resolves behavioural conflicts—situations where animals must choose between competing motivations, such as feeding versus escaping danger. This research is crucial for understanding the fundamental principles of decision-making, which have broad implications for neuroscience, psychology, and even artificial intelligence. By studying these processes in Drosophila (fruit flies), the team aims to uncover universal mechanisms that link molecular and synaptic activity to observable behaviour. The outcomes of this research could inform our understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders, improve models of decision-making, and inspire novel therapeutic strategies.
Project Details
The programme, led by Prof. Carolina Rezaval, is funded by the Wellcome Trust and hosted within a vibrant, collaborative neuroscience community at the University of Birmingham. The projects are designed to be flexible and will be shaped according to the interests and expertise of successful candidates. Research approaches include:
– Innovative behavioural assays
– Advanced genetics and molecular biology
– Neural circuit dissection and optogenetics
– In vivo two-photon imaging and connectomics
– Behavioural tracking and computational analysis
– Single-cell transcriptomics
The lab maintains active collaborations across the UK and Europe, providing an excellent platform for intellectual exchange, technical training, and career development.
Candidate Profile
Ideal candidates for these positions will have a strong background in neuroscience, behavioural science, genetics, molecular biology, or computational biology. Suitable applicants are those who:
– Are enthusiastic about investigating neural mechanisms of behaviour
– Possess strong analytical skills and familiarity with relevant experimental techniques (such as behavioural assays, optogenetics, or imaging)
– Are motivated to work in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment
– Demonstrate curiosity, creativity, and a drive to contribute to impactful scientific discovery
– For postdoctoral roles: Have a completed PhD or equivalent research experience
– For the research assistant/PhD position: Hold a relevant undergraduate or master’s degree and a keen interest in pursuing doctoral research
Application Process
– Application deadlines are as follows:
• Postdoctoral positions: 2026-04-26
• Research Assistant / PhD position: 2026-05-03
– To find out more and apply, please visit:
https://www.rezavallab.org/
– This opportunity was also advertised by Prof. Carolina Rezaval on LinkedIn. For further details and updates, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/carolina-rezaval-98aa0144_postdoc-phd-positions-in-neuroscience-ugcPost-7446574573355094016-0xUM
Conclusion
If you are driven to explore the intricacies of decision-making in the brain and wish to develop your career in a supportive, innovative environment, this is an outstanding opportunity. The University of Birmingham offers not only exceptional research facilities but also access to a vibrant academic and cultural community. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and to keep an eye on similar opportunities for advancing their academic journey.
Questions & Answers
Question: What makes the University of Birmingham a strong choice for neuroscience research?
The University of Birmingham is internationally recognized for its research excellence, collaborative environment, and access to advanced technology. Its neuroscience community is particularly vibrant, offering strong mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Question: What research skills are most valuable for these positions?
Experience with behavioural assays, genetics, molecular biology, optogenetics, imaging, and computational data analysis are all highly relevant. A willingness to learn new methods and adapt to evolving project needs is also important.
Question: Can applicants shape the focus of their research projects?
Yes, projects within this programme are flexible and can be tailored to align with the interests and expertise of successful candidates, allowing for a personalized and engaging research experience.
Question: Are there opportunities for collaboration and career development?
Absolutely. The lab collaborates actively with other groups across the UK and Europe, and the university provides numerous resources for professional growth, networking, and skill development.
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