Job Summary Table of Research Assistant

Job Description Summary

An exciting opportunity for a Graduate Research Assistant to join Dr. Clémence Bernard’s team at the University of Exeter, contributing to groundbreaking research on neuronal circuit development in the mammalian brain, with funding from The Wellcome Trust.

🔬 Research Assistant Role in Neuronal Circuit Development

Are you passionate about neuroscience and looking to develop your research skills in a world-class academic environment? The Faculty of Health and Life Sciences at the University of Exeter is seeking a dedicated Graduate Research Assistant to join an innovative research team investigating the development of neuronal circuits in the mammalian brain. This permanent position, beginning September 2025, is externally funded by The Wellcome Trust and offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge biomedical research.

Responsibilities

• Provide logistical, organizational, and technical support for Dr. Clémence Bernard’s research team
• Assist in establishing and maintaining the day-to-day operations of the laboratory
• Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments related to neuronal circuit development
• Support mouse work as part of the research protocols
• Collaborate closely with the group leader and other team members
• Present research progress and outcomes through various communication channels
• Prepare proposals and applications to external bodies as needed
• Maintain meticulous records of all research activities and findings

🧠 Neuronal Research Environment and Qualifications

The successful candidate will join a vibrant and collaborative research environment focused on understanding the fundamental mechanisms underlying brain development. This position offers extensive training opportunities in state-of-the-art biomedical research methods, providing an excellent foundation for a career in neuroscience research.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant scientific field
• Demonstrated knowledge of research methods and techniques
• Strong interest in neuronal circuit development and related research areas
• Excellent communication skills for presenting complex information orally, in writing, and electronically
• Proven ability to work effectively within established research programs
• Meticulous attention to detail and record-keeping abilities
• Effective teamwork and collaboration skills

Desired Experience

• Prior experience in histology techniques
• Background in molecular biology methods
• Experience with mouse work in a research setting
• Familiarity with neuroscience research protocols
• Evidence of contribution to research projects

🏆 Benefits and Perks at University of Exeter

• Competitive starting salary from £33,482 on Grade E, depending on qualifications and experience
• Full-time position with 36.5 contractual hours per week
• Generous holiday allowances for work-life balance
• Flexible working arrangements to accommodate personal needs
• Comprehensive pension scheme for long-term financial security
• Relocation package (if applicable) to facilitate your move to beautiful Devon
• Support for intellectual growth and creative cross-disciplinary research
• Specialized support teams aligned with university-wide research goals
• Access to Innovation, Impact and Business directorate for external engagement
• Exeter Academic initiative supporting high-performing academics in career development
• Industry-leading benefits for maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay)
• Enhanced paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay)
• Progressive Fertility Treatment Policy
• A stunning campus in the heart of Devon’s picturesque landscape

Company Overview

The University of Exeter stands among the prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities and ranks in the top 200 universities globally according to both Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 and QS World University Ranking 2024. The university combines world-class teaching with world-class research, having achieved a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework Award 2023, with Gold ratings specifically for Student Experience and Student Outcomes.

World-Leading Research Environment

Exeter’s research impact has grown more significantly than any other Russell Group university in recent years. The institution houses some of the world’s most influential researchers who address fundamental issues facing humanity today. More than 99 percent of the university’s research is of international quality, with 47 percent classified as world-leading according to the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

The university actively encourages engagement with industry, business, and community partners to enhance research impact and education quality while improving student employability. Their groundbreaking Green Futures initiative and commitment to transforming education for a changing world demonstrate their forward-thinking approach.

Career Growth Opportunities

Working at the University of Exeter offers exceptional career development pathways in academic research. You’ll have access to: – State-of-the-art research facilities and technologies – Networking opportunities with leading international researchers – Professional development workshops and training programs – Pathways to further academic or research positions – Opportunities to contribute to influential publications and research outcomes

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The University of Exeter fosters a diverse and engaging environment with over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 150 different countries. The university celebrates this diversity as a major strength and is committed to creating an inclusive culture where all community members can thrive. They engage with evidence-based charter frameworks for gender (Athena SWAN and Project Juno for Physics), race equality (Race Equality Charter Mark), LGBTQ+ inclusion (Stonewall Diversity Champion) and operate as a Disability Confident employer.

Equal Opportunity Statement

As proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, the University of Exeter welcomes applications from service people and values all community members. While all applicants will be judged on merit alone, the university particularly welcomes applications from groups currently underrepresented within their working community and ensures reasonable adjustments are available for interviews and workplaces.

Application Process

1. Review the complete Job Description and Person Specification
2. Submit your application through the University of Exeter recruitment portal
3. If shortlisted, attend an interview (scheduled for 27th May 2025)
4. Receive notification of the selection decision

How to Apply

For additional information about this position, please contact Dr. Clémence Bernard directly at c.bernard@exeter.ac.uk. To submit your application, visit the University of Exeter jobs portal.

Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your research career at one of the UK’s leading universities while contributing to cutting-edge neuroscience research in a beautiful Devon setting!

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