Research Fellow

This project aims to discover the neuronal circuits underlying the female Drosophila post-mating response induced by male-derived sex peptide. This project uses the fruit-fly Drosophila as a model organism. The project will involve using the techniques of genetics and molecular biology including generation of reporter transgenes e.g. using Crispr/Cas9 genome editing and transgenesis, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, and some biochemical techniques. This project is funded by a BBSRC Grant led by the Principal Investigator Dr Matthias Soller in the School of Biosciences.

This post is to work on the BBSRC funded project: the “Understanding multi-level impact of male-derived sex peptide on female reproductive behaviours”. In particular the project aims to identify the neuronal circuits underlying the female Drosophila post-mating response induced by male-derived sex peptide. This project uses the fruit-fly Drosophila as a model organism. This project will extend on the findings published by Haussmann et al, Proceedings of the Royal Society 2013, Nasallivan et al., BMC Biology 2021 and Nasallivan et al, submitted 2024 and will be published for wider dissemination. 

Role Summary

• Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
• Operate within area of specialism
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results
• Contribute to generating funding

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.

• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required. Develop research objectives, think about and engage in the intellectual aspects of the project, contributing to project direction and proposals for own or joint research, in collaboration with of Dr Soller in a creative and productive manner
• Execute experiments to generate data, and analyse and interpret data for the project

Person Specification

• First degree in area of specialism and normally, a higher degree relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications, at least three years of research experience and a PhD (or one near to completion) in biology, genetics, biochemistry or related discipline within the life sciences are required
• High level analytical capability
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly, , e.g. in spoken English, periodic preparation of PowerPoint presentations for progress reports and manuscripts
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones. Experience working with Drosophila genetics, cell culture, immunohistochemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, confocal microscopy and imaging
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively

Informal enquiries to Matthias Soller, [email protected]

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the Apply Online button.