Postdoctoral Research Associate in Neuroimmunology of Sleep-Wake Regulation
Explore how immune mechanisms shape hypothalamic circuits controlling sleep and wakefulness in development and inflammation.
Best for:Best for senior postdoctoral researchers with a PhD in neuroscience, immunology, or related fields, seeking to bridge immune and neural systems in sleep regulation research.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at The University of Manchester focuses on uncovering the immunological foundations of hypothalamic circuit maturation, particularly in relation to sleep-wake cycles. Based in the Quintana Lab within the Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation and the Geoffrey Jefferson Centre for Brain Research, the successful candidate will investigate how immune processes sculpt inhibitory and excitatory neural pathways in the hypothalamus from early life through adulthood. The role involves cutting-edge research combining neuroscience and immunology, with a strong emphasis on experimental techniques in mice, electrophysiology, and behavioral studies. Ideal candidates should have a PhD in neuroscience or a related discipline, a track record of high-impact publications, and hands-on experience in neuroscience methodologies. The position offers a dynamic, collaborative environment and opportunities to develop independent research projects while contributing to grant writing and publication preparation.
What you'll do
- Conduct original research to elucidate the immunological basis of hypothalamic maturation and its impact on sleep-wake cycles.
- Perform surgeries and behavioral studies in mice to investigate neural circuit development and function.
- Develop and implement novel techniques for data collection and analysis in neuroscience and immunology.
- Draft and prepare high-impact publications for submission to peer-reviewed journals.
- Lead and contribute to grant proposal writing to secure research funding.
- Collaborate with team members and work across interdisciplinary boundaries to advance research goals.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in neuroscience, behavioral sciences, sleep research, or a related discipline
Language: English (proficiency required for academic communication and collaboration)
Instruction: English
Publications: Demonstrable experience through high-impact scientific outputs as first and/or corresponding author
- Demonstrable experience in neuroscience research with high-impact publications as first or corresponding author
- Extensive theoretical and practical knowledge in neuroscience, electrophysiology, behavior, sleep, and in vivo genetic manipulations
- Proven ability to lead projects and teams, evidenced by publications or industry deliverables
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration across academic levels
- Proficiency in conducting surgeries and behavioral studies in mice
- No explicit eligibility restrictions beyond PhD qualification and research experience
- Open to candidates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-03 (Europe/London)
Applicants must submit their CV, cover letter, and a research statement through the university’s online application portal. Ensure your application includes evidence of high-impact publications and relevant research experience. Shortlisting will be based on academic qualifications, research potential, and alignment with the project goals.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research statement
- Proof of PhD qualification
- Publication list or reprints of key papers
Contact
Dr. Juan F. Quintana· Supervisor
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