Job ID: 120284

Research Assistant in the Neurological Effects of the Gut-Brain Axis

Position: Research Assistant / Junior Research Assistant

Deadline: 21 October 2024

Employment Start Date: 31 October 2024

Contract Length: Initially 1 year with potential to be extended.

City: Shatin

Country: Hong Kong

Institution: The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Department: The Department of Psychiatry

Description:

This is a re-posting with updated information.

The Department of Psychiatry at The Chinese University of Hong Kong is seeking a Junior Research Assistant or Research Assistant to contribute to Microbiome-Gut-Brain projects. These projects have been established through collaborations with the Hub of Advanced Technology for Child Health, the Microbiota I-Center, and the International Brain Lab. Our aim is to leverage multidisciplinary insights and tools to study circuit-based neuropathological signatures observed in humanised animal models. This project seeks to dissect the intricate dynamics within the gut-brain axis, from genetic and cellular activities to circuits, system functions, behaviour, and computational modelling.

 

The role offers on-the-job training, international exposure, mentorship, publication opportunities, and further development prospects.

A suitable candidate with good performance will also be offered further study opportunities.

 

The successful applicant will:

• Hold a BSc or higher qualification, preferably in computational neuroscience, neuroscience, a related field, or a quantitative discipline such as physics, statistics, and mathematics.
• Be proficient in English with strong communication skills.
• Demonstrate programming skills and experience, with the ability to analyse and model behavioural and EEG data.
• Be responsible, organised, efficient, and self-motivated.
• Show enthusiasm for research and collaboration.

Candidates with research experience and knowledge in computational modelling, machine learning, or Python, especially in relation to EEG data, will have an advantage.

 

Key responsibilities include:

  • Collecting, analysing, and modelling neural, behavioural, and other biological data.
  • Developing and maintaining analytical methodologies and technical skills.
  • Disseminating research findings.
  • Collaborating with colleagues within and outside the research projects.
  • Performing other tasks as assigned.

 

The post-holder is expected to actively engage with scientific and clinical communities to enhance their methodological skills and theoretical understanding during their tenure. The appointment will initially be on a contract basis for one year, commencing as soon as possible, with the possibility of renewal subject to mutual agreement.

 

CUHK ranks 36th in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and 28th in Medicine. The department is a vibrant collaboration between clinicians, AI specialists, and molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscientists. For details, please refer to the department’s website and the PI website.

 

Please contact Petrina Lau at yaupoklau(a)cuhk.edu.hk for more details about the post. Applications are open now and will remain open until the position is filled. Please apply through the CUHK vacancy platform (ID: 240002I5) by uploading your CV, cover letter, and the contact details of two referees onto the online application platform. We look forward to hearing from you.