About the position
The cognitive mapping of uncertainty by integrated neuromodulation in the hippocampus
We are looking to recruit a team of highly motivated researchers comprising 3 senior postdoctoral research associates and a specialist research technician to investigate the mechanisms of learning in dynamic uncertain environments. This project will uncover how the neuromodulators acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin combine within hippocampal circuits to control learning. Each neuromodulator is associated with expectation, error and uncertainty and we will test how these signals are integrated to dictate learning in uncertain situations. The team will combine the use of electrophysiology, optogenetics and 2-photon imaging in rodent brain slices and 2-photon imaging with virtual reality rodent behaviour in vivo to study where and when neuromodulators are released in the hippocampus during learning and their impact on plasticity and adaptive representations.
This is a highly collaborative project integrating expertise in synaptic physiology (Bristol), hippocampal representations (Dan Dombeck, Northwestern) and computational modelling (Claudia Clopath, Imperial College London). The team science approach will require individuals who think creatively and flourish in collaborative environments.
The successful candidates for the PDRA positions should have a PhD (or near completion) and a BSc in a relevant discipline. A good understanding of hippocampal circuit plasticity and curiosity to decipher the mechanisms of learning is highly desirable for all posts.
Experience required for each post:
Senior Research Associate 1 - 2-photon imaging and/or patch-clamp recording techniques (ideally in brain slices). Senior Research Associate in Neuroscience - ACAD108718. Closing date: 30/09/2026
Senior Research Associates 2&3 - rodent behaviour, recording and analysing neuronal activity in vivo. Senior Research Associate in Neuroscience - ACAD108716. Closing date: 05/10/2026
Specialist Technician (Research) – Neuroscience research and collaborative team working. This position will be available from 24/09/2026 (search SUPP113764 via https://www.bristol.ac.uk/jobs/find/).
Applications to be submitted via the University of Bristol website where you will also find the relevant job descriptions using the links above.
The team will be funded by a 7 year grant from the Wellcome Trust.
Informal enquiries can be directed to Prof Jack Mellor – Jack.Mellor@Bristol.ac.uk
Positions to start from January 2027. Links to further details can be found at https://mellor-lab.github.io/
Closing date: 5 October 2026.
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