Research Associate Post-doctoral Fellow in

Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo| School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing
Located in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New Zealand
- Full-time 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE)
- 2-year fixed term - Position starting as soon as possible.

**Āu Mahi | What You Will Do**

Professors John Dalrymple-Alford and Anna Mitchell are delighted to advertise for a funded Research Associate | **Post-Doctoral Fellow **in Neuroscience position to join their behavioural neuroscience lab at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand.

This role is supported by Marsden funding from the Royal Society of New Zealand. The research will investigate thalamocortical interactions in cognition using rat models, some of which include collaboration with Professor Mathieu Wolff (University of Bordeaux).

You would be involved in viral vector and lesion experiments in rats to answer new questions concerning the critical role in cognition of neurons within the anterior thalamic nuclei. These nuclei constitute a key part of the complex thalamocortical systems that influence memory and attention in the brain. You would be leading research studies to determine the influence of a specific subset of thalamic neurons that have not been examined previously. You would also assist in co-supervision of postgraduate students involved in these studies. This work is highly relevant to our understanding of how the thalamus actively controls cognition and how loss of cell function influences different human conditions, especially after acute thalamic injury and in various neurodegenerative disorders.

**Mōu | Who You Are**

We seek a highly motivated, dynamic, and curious Post-Doctoral Fellow who has:

- A PhD in neuroscience, applicants nearing completion of their PhD will also be considered.
- Expertise in electrophysiology, especially in behavioural experiments, is ideal.
- Expertise in optogenetics or DREADDs is highly desirable.
- Knowledge and experience of behavioural tasks for cognitive experiments would be an advantage.
- Experience working with rodents, preferably rats.
- Experience working in a team environment, specifically experience working in a lab environment.
- The ability to independently as required.
- A publication track record, with publications in highly regarded journals.
- Relevant neuro-histology skills
- Experience with preparation and delivery of quality oral or poster presentations is highly desirable.
- An ability to communicate complex ideas and concepts (both orally and in writing), including scientific and non-scientific audiences.

**Mahi Ngātahi | Who You Will Work With**

You will be working with Professors John Dalrymple-Alford and Anna Mitchell The School of Psychology, Speech & Hearing | Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo is committed to excellence in teaching and research. We aim to provide undergraduate and postgraduate education, and to carry out high class research and clinical services; and to facilitate the use by society of the knowledge gained.

**Ngā Painga o UC | Why UC**

Tangata Tū, Tangata Ora - Engaged, Empowered, Making a Difference.

The University of Canterbury is committed to accessible higher education, service to community and the encouragement of talent without barriers of distance, wealth, class, gender or ethnicity. The University explicitly aims to produce graduates and support staff who are engaged with their communities, empowered to act for good and determined to make a difference in the world.

**What we offer**
- Flexible working arrangements
- Supportive working environment
- Professional development opportunities
- Living in revitalised Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand
- A unique working environment in a beautiful campus with access to UC facilities such as the recreation centre and Staff club at discounted rates plus onsite café's and eateries, and more

**The closing date for this position is: 27 November 2024 (midnight, NZ time)**

**Pēhea te tono mai | How You Apply**

Applications for this position must be submitted on our careers website and should include a resume and a cover letter (including an overview of relevant experience). Please include the contact details of two referees who are established academics and one of whom can comment on your experience and ability to work in a team environment.
- Appointable salary for a Post Doctoral Fellow will be $80,000-$91,510.63 p.a._
- Appointable salary for a Research Associate will be $_ _61,007.08 -$71,179.94 p.a. _

For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand website, to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand.

**Job Details**:

- Reference #
22024- Posted on
30 Oct 2024- Closes on
27 Nov 2024 23:59- Location(s)
Christchurch- Expertise
Education & Training- Job level(s)
Entry/Graduate- Work type(s)
Fixed term full-time