Research Fellow School of Biosciences 107238 – Grade 6

Position Details

School of Biosciences

Location: University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range 33002 to 35608 with potential progression once in post to 39906

Grade: 6

Full Time Fixed Term contract up to September 2029

Closing date: 27 April 2026

This role is also open as an internal secondment opportunity which would need to be agreed by your current line manager.

Background

To assist in research (by carrying out data collection or analyses) to create knowledge through providing research support for projects and research groups.

Role Summary

A Research Assistant position is available in the research group of Prof. Carolina Rezaval at the University of Birmingham UK. The successful candidate will contribute to research investigating how the brain prioritises behaviour when animals face conflicting internal needs and changing environmental demands.

This position forms part of the Wellcome Trust Discovery Award programme Decoding Competition in the Brain which builds on recent advances revealing how neuromodulatory circuits reshape decision-making under conflict (Cazalé-Debat Scheunemann et al. Nature 2024; Day & Rezaval Curr. Opin. Neurobiol. 2026). Using Drosophila melanogaster we combine behavioural assays neural circuit mapping advanced genetics two-photon imaging and molecular approaches to uncover fundamental principles of behavioural choice.

The postholder will work closely with members of the Rezaval lab. They will support experimental work including behaviour microscopy molecular biology and Drosophila genetics as well as routine fly work and laboratory organisation. The role will also involve analysing data and contributing to publications.

The position offers broad training in neurogenetics and behaviour and is well suited to candidates wishing to develop towards a PhD. The post is available for an initial period of three years with the possibility of extension.

Main Duties

Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods such as scientific experimentation literature reviews and research interviews under the supervision of Prof. Rezaval.

Analyse research data as directed

Present research outputs including drafting academic publications or parts thereof for example at seminars and as posters

Develop or adapt techniques models and methods

Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research

Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines

Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research

Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

First degree or equivalent professional qualification in an appropriate science subject (e.g. Life Sciences/Biological Sciences/Genetics/Cell Biology/Neuroscience/ Biochemistry or related disciplines).

Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques

Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively

Ability to access and organise resources successfully

Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010 and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Informal enquiries toCarolina Rezaval email:

View our staff values and behaviourshere

Use of AI in applications:We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.

We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyoneon our website.