Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Automotive Jobs, Health and Care
Uk
February 18, 2026
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

About the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre

At the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre (SWC), we bring together top neuroscientists from diverse disciplines to decode how brain networks compute information to guide behaviour, perception, and memory. The Centre benefits from state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced imaging and electrophysiology facilities, custom fabrication and prototyping spaces, alongside high-performance computing resources—all designed to enable frontier research.

Our mission is to build predictive, experimentally testable theories of brain function. Teams span molecular biology, in vivo systems neuroscience, behaviour, and computation.

The Research Environment

You will join a thriving neuroscience hub where innovative methods— from single-cell recordings to optogenetics and behavioural systems—are used to understand the brain.

In particular:

The Harris Lab investigates one of biology’s key mysteries: Why do brains need sleep? This work explores how sleep affects neural computation, memory, and energy dynamics using rodent models.

Role Overview

We are recruiting an exceptional Postdoctoral Research Fellow for a joint project between the labs of Sonja Hofer and Tim Behrens at SWC.

Project Focus:
Unravelling how networks in neocortex and subcortex coordinate to support flexible behaviour. Specifically, you will investigate mechanisms of goal switching and strategy selection by mapping computational theories onto defined neural pathways.

You will apply multidisciplinary methods, including:

  • In vivo imaging and high-density electrophysiology (e.g., Neuropixels probes)
  • Sophisticated behavioural assays
  • Genetic and molecular tools for circuit tracing & manipulation

Analysis of neural dynamics across structures such as the median raphe nucleus, frontal cortex, and hippocampus

Who We’re Looking For

You should be a motivated neuroscientist holding (or about to submit) a PhD in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical sciences or a related discipline.

Essential experience and skills:

  • Rodent-based research: surgical procedures, behavioural training, circuit dissection
  • In vivo neural measurement: electrophysiology or cellular-resolution imaging
  • Independent problem solving and project leadership
  • Data analysis proficiency using Python, MATLAB, or R
  • Strong statistical understanding
  • Excellent communication: scientific writing and presentations
  • Collaborative and ethical research practices
  • Ability to manage multiple activities and priorities

This post qualifies for a UK Skilled Worker Visa and is also suitable for applicants eligible under the Global Talent Visa route. Guidance on visa categories and eligibility can be found at UK Visas and Immigration

What We Offer

Working at SWC means you will be based in the heart of Fitzrovia, London, within a collaborative and supportive scientific community.

Benefits include:

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

UCL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage candidates from groups underrepresented in research careers—such as those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled applicants, LGBTQIA+ communities, and women in senior STEM roles—to apply.

Our institutional commitment includes:

  • Active support for disability adjustments and accessibility
  • Participation in the Athena SWAN Charter for gender equity: https://www.advance-he.ac.uk/athena-swan
  • Dignity at Work policies to uphold respectful and fair treatment for all

Health & Safety

All staff are expected to uphold high standards of health and safety. Read UCL’s policies here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/safety-and-health

How to Apply

Please prepare your CV, a 2-page statement of research interests, and contact details for referees. Submit your application before 15 March 2026.

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