The University of Surrey invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join an exciting project investigating the role of prenatal nutrition in childhood neurodevelopment. This interdisciplinary project, funded by the Waterloo Foundation, combines human brain organoid models and multi-omics to uncover the molecular mechanisms influencing neurodevelopment. The project’s ultimate goal is to develop personalised nutrition strategies during pregnancy, contributing to the field of precision medicine and public health.
This full-time post is available on a fixed-term basis for 12 months with an option for extension.
The role
As a postdoctoral research fellow, you will lead ground breaking experiments using state-of-the-art 3D organoid models to recapitulate early human neurodevelopment. Additionally, the candidate will have an opportunity to utilise the COPSAC2010 birth cohort data to understand the complex interactions between prenatal diet and nutrient supplementation on offspring neurodevelopment and whether this can be explained by early-age gut microbiome and metabolic profiles.
The ultimate goal is to develop personalised nutrition strategies during pregnancy to promote healthy neurodevelopment in children, contributing to advancements in childhood neurodevelopment and public health.
The research fellow will work under the supervision of Dr. Min Kim (University of Surrey) in collaboration with Prof. Bo Chawes (COPSAC, Denmark) and Dr. Olivier Cexus (University of Surrey).
About you
We are looking for a dynamic and highly motivated individual with the following qualifications:
Essential Skills:
- PhD (or soon to gain) in Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field.
- Strong experience working with multicellular organoid cultures.
- Proficiency in data analysis tools such as R and Python.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Desirable Skills:
- Previous experience in neurodevelopment research or prenatal nutrition.
- Familiarity with gut microbiome analysis and metabolomics.
How to apply
To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and how you meet the criteria outlined above on the University Website.
For informal enquiries, contact Dr Min Kim (min.kim@surrey.ac.uk) and Dr Olivier Cexus (o.cexus@surrey.ac.uk).
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an initial pre-screen interview in early November, followed by face-to-face interviews (optional) in mid-November."
For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply online' button above.
In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate , flexible working options including job share and blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.
Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.
The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.