Job Summary Table of Dementia Research

Job Description Summary

Exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow to conduct innovative research on cognitive function and dementia risk using genetic and molecular epidemiological methods in a prestigious Russell Group university.

Responsibilities

• Analyze large-scale datasets, including UK Biobank, to identify proteomic associations with cognitive function
• Utilize causal methodologies, including Mendelian randomisation, to investigate the proteomic basis of the link between cognitive function and dementia risk
• Perform comprehensive literature reviews related to cognitive function and dementia
• Apply advanced statistical methods for data analysis and interpretation
• Present research findings at conferences and professional meetings
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact scientific journals
• Develop research objectives, projects, and proposals
• Identify potential sources of research funding and contribute to securing funds
• Collaborate with team members and potentially supervise junior researchers (PDRF level)
• Contribute to the academic environment of the Department of Psychology

🧠 Dementia Research: Investigating Cognitive Function Through Molecular Epidemiology

The Department of Psychology at the University of Exeter is seeking a talented and motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow to join their team working on an exciting Academy of Medical Sciences funded project. This research focuses on utilizing cutting-edge genetic and molecular epidemiological methods to investigate cognitive function and dementia risk—a research area of growing importance as our global population ages.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with world-class datasets, including the UK Biobank, and apply sophisticated analytical techniques to identify proteomic associations with cognitive function. By employing causal methodologies such as Mendelian randomisation, you’ll be at the forefront of research investigating the proteomic basis of the crucial link between cognitive function and dementia risk.

Scientific Research in Cognitive Function & Dementia Risk

This fixed-term position offers an excellent opportunity for scientists passionate about advancing our understanding of cognitive decline and dementia pathways. The research utilizes molecular epidemiology—a field that bridges traditional epidemiology with molecular biology—to identify potential biomarkers and causal mechanisms underlying cognitive impairment.

Your work will directly contribute to the global scientific effort to understand dementia, potentially identifying new targets for intervention or prevention strategies. By analyzing large-scale datasets and applying rigorous statistical methods, you’ll help uncover connections between proteomics, cognitive function, and dementia risk that could inform future clinical applications.

Key Research Activities & Professional Development

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow focusing on dementia research, your role will encompass various scientific activities crucial for advancing knowledge in this field:

• Data Analysis: Apply sophisticated statistical techniques to analyze complex datasets from the UK Biobank and other sources
• Causal Inference: Implement Mendelian randomisation and other causal methodologies to investigate relationships between proteins, cognitive function, and dementia
• Scientific Communication: Present findings at national and international conferences, prepare manuscripts for high-impact journals
• Research Planning: Develop research objectives and methodologies for this project and potential future initiatives
• Funding Applications: Identify sources of research funding and contribute to securing additional resources
• Collaboration: Work closely with team members across disciplines to maximize research impact

For Postdoctoral Research Fellows, additional responsibilities include leading aspects of the research programme and potentially supervising junior team members, providing excellent leadership development opportunities.

Benefits of Working at University of Exeter

The University of Exeter, a prestigious member of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities, provides an exceptional environment for professional growth and scientific discovery. As one of the top 200 universities globally (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 and QS World University Ranking 2024), Exeter combines world-class teaching with cutting-edge research.

Outstanding Research Environment & Support

The university’s research impact has grown more significantly than any other Russell Group university in recent years, with 99% of research rated as international quality and 47% as world-leading (2021 Research Excellence Framework). You’ll join a community of influential researchers tackling fundamental challenges facing humanity.

At Exeter, you’ll enjoy:

• Freedom and support to pursue your intellectual interests across disciplines
• Specialized support teams aligned with university-wide research goals
• The Innovation, Impact and Business directorate providing expert support for external engagement
• The Exeter Academic initiative supporting high-performing academics
• Industry-leading benefits including exceptional maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay)
• A beautiful campus in the heart of stunning Devon

Work-Life Balance & Flexibility

This role offers excellent work-life balance with:

• Hybrid working opportunities (some campus time required)
• Part-time options available (minimum 29.2 hours, 0.8 FTE)
• Generous holiday allowances
• Comprehensive pension scheme
• Relocation package (if applicable)
• Paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay)
• Fertility treatment policy

Qualifications & Skills Required for Dementia Research

For Postdoctoral Research Associate:

• PhD (or nearing completion) in relevant field
• Demonstrated knowledge of research methods in genetic/molecular epidemiology
• Ability to develop research objectives and projects
• Capability to identify funding sources and contribute to securing funds
• Excellent presentation skills for conferences and other events

For Postdoctoral Research Fellow:

• Completed PhD in relevant field
• Recognition as a national authority in genetic/molecular epidemiology
• Specialist knowledge to develop research programmes and methodologies
• Advanced ability to analyze large datasets using R
• Skills in interpreting findings within research literature context
• Demonstrated ability to communicate findings via conferences and publications
• Capability to work collaboratively and supervise others
• Leadership potential

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Exeter is deeply committed to creating an inclusive culture where all community members can thrive. The institution celebrates diversity as a major strength and engages with evidence-based charter frameworks including:

• Athena SWAN and Project Juno for gender equality
• Race Equality Charter Mark
• LGBTQ+ inclusion (Stonewall Diversity Champion)
• Disability Confident employer status

With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 150 different countries, Exeter offers a truly diverse and engaging environment. The university particularly welcomes applications from groups currently underrepresented within their working community and is a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant.

Application Process & Timeline

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the University of Exeter’s recruitment portal. Interviews are expected to take place in June.

For further information about this exciting dementia research opportunity, please contact Dr. Rosie Walker at r.walker4@exeter.ac.uk.

This fixed-term position runs from September 1, 2025, until August 31, 2027, offering an exceptional opportunity to advance your research career while contributing to our understanding of cognitive function and dementia risk.

Application Deadline

Info not available

How to Apply

Visit the University of Exeter Jobs Portal and search for job reference Q04746.

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