Programme Leader - Neurobiology - Dr Michael Hastings - LMB 1846

Overall purpose:

To direct a world-class research programme within the Neurobiology Division of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), by developing and/ or applying novel approaches in high-density, large-volume image acquisition (light, X-ray, electron) and the associated computational analyses to determine the structure, connectivity and function of intact nervous systems with synaptic resolution, in health and disease.

Main duties/ Key responsibilities:

To expand and complement the Molecular Connectomics Initiative, recently established by the Neurobiology Division, which seeks to address outstanding fundamental neurobiological questions, with a focus on the storage, retrieval and modification of information in relation to the molecular architecture of the synapse and whole-circuit synaptic connectivity.To devise and lead a programme of research to develop and apply novel technical approaches and associated computational analyses of state-of-the-art, high-density, large-volume imaging (light, X-ray, electron) to define the molecular and synaptic control of behaviour within intact nervous systems. To complete research projects in a timely manner and publish the results in leading scientific journals.To present the results of the research at national and international conferences.To contribute to LMB-wide activities relating to organisation of scientific activities and technological infrastructure.To contribute to scientific progress in the field as a whole by, for example, membership of expert committees, editing specialist journals, refereeing funding applications.To take responsibility for the Recruitment, Management, Training and Development of Group members.To generate and manage major collaborations to expand the scope of the programme.To manage the financial and equipment resources of the group including purchasing and managing the effective use of capital equipment.To contribute to the MRC’s engagement with the public and to communicate the excitement of research to the public and taxpayer.To ensure that any intellectual property is protected and, where possible, to translate the results of research into useful new approaches or treatments that improve human health.Research leadership of a group of Research Scientists, comprising of Postdoctoral Fellows, PhD Students and Technical Support Staff.Interacting with other Researchers, contributing to both the harmonious and successful running of the LMB as well as the joint scientific mission.

Working relationships:

You will report to the Head of Division. As an independent Group Leader (Programme Leader / Programme Leader Track) you will be expected to interact with Scientists and Support Staff within the Neurobiology Division and the rest of the LMB, and externally with members of the national and international research community.

Additional information:

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the MRC.