A Research Associate post is available in the Zlatic group directed by Dr. Marta Zlatic in the Department of Zoology at the University of Cambridge.
The applicant will investigate the neural mechanisms underlying learning and behaviour in Drosophila larvae, with a particular focus on the functional organization of mushroom body compartments. The mushroom body is the primary brain structure involved in learning in Drosophila, and is organized into multiple functional compartments. Our lab has recently published the full connectome of the larval brain, uncovering the complex and highly recurrent connectivity map of the mushroom bodies. Previous work from our lab and others has shed light on basic rules of plasticity in some of these compartments, but the precise functional role of each compartment, and how dopaminergic input reshapes signalling within it - remains largely unknown.
The principal aim for this post is to dissect the circuit mechanisms of associative learning at the level of membrane potential. The successful candidate will combine whole-cell electrophysiological recordings from identified mushroom body neurons with two-photon holographic stimulation, using this manipulate-and-record approach to establish how dopaminergic neurons (DANs) shape Kenyon cell to output neuron (KC to MBON) signalling and drive plasticity at the KC to MBON synapse. By integrating cell-resolved optical manipulation with high-resolution electrophysiology, the project seeks to reveal how learning is compartmentalized within the mushroom bodies and how these circuits are modulated during experience-dependent plasticity.
Demonstrated hands-on expertise in patch-clamp electrophysiology (including recordings from small or identified neurons) is essential, as is experience with two-photon holographic stimulation and/or imaging (spatial light modulator - based systems, holographic optogenetics, or holographic voltage/calcium imaging). A strong quantitative background and coding experience (R and/or Python) to support, maintain, and further develop custom-built electrophysiology and holographic optical systems will be essential. Some background in neurobiology is required, and prior experience with Drosophila neurogenetics (GAL4/UAS, opsins such as CsChrimson, voltage/calcium indicators) or mushroom body circuitry is highly desirable.
The successful candidate will join a collaborative team based in Zoology, interacting closely with experimental and theory groups within Cambridge and beyond. Candidates will need to be highly motivated and develop a good understanding of the nature of the data and the project's scientific aims; this will be critical to setting priorities as the work develops. Close teamwork and a collaborative spirit will be essential, but team members will be expected to demonstrate scientific independence matching their technical expertise. There will be opportunities to contribute to training new team members and to general project management, as well as to participate in public engagement activities.
For more information, please refer to the Further Particulars document
The deadline for applications is midnight on 16th July 2026. The interview for this role is expected to take place during the week commencing Monday, 27th July 2026 (subject to change).
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for up to 2 months.
Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
We particularly welcome applications from women and candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level.
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Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Dr Marta Zlatic [email: [email protected]]
If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Zoology HR Office [email: [email protected]]
Please quote reference PF50233 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
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