Chair in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience

Role Description

The University of York, Department of Biology, invites applications for the position of Chair in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience. This senior appointment follows the successful launch of a new undergraduate programme in Neuroscience and represents a significant opportunity for an internationally recognised academic to provide leadership in research and graduate teaching within a highly strategic area of biomedical science.

The Department of Biology is dedicated to maintaining the University's reputation as an international centre of excellence in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience. The department recently launched a new undergraduate specialist degree in Neuroscience. The postholder's research will directly complement ongoing work within the Neuroscience theme of the York Biomedical Research Institute (YBRI).

The Role

The Chair in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience will advance the subject nationally and internationally across key academic domains, including research, teaching, networking, and consultancy. The appointee will deliver internationally outstanding research and scholarship, including securing significant external funding. Furthermore, the Chair is responsible for attracting and supervising research students and post-doctoral researchers, mentoring junior academic colleagues, and making a critical contribution to the leadership and management of the Department.

Key Requirements:

• Qualifications: A PhD and Membership of professional societies.
• Knowledge: Outstanding and internationally recognised knowledge of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience with expertise in advanced imaging technologies including super-resolution imaging.
• Demonstrated ability to define, lead, manage and attract funds for internationally excellent research
• Substantial publication record in leading peer-reviewed journals
• Significant and sustained success in accessing research grants and other external funding.

This is an Open contract, 37 hours per week (flexibility available), based at the Heslington Campus. The salary is Commensurate with experience in the Professorial Scale (current minimum £78,798).

Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The University of York is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive. We encourage applications from women and individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds, who are currently underrepresented in leadership roles within the institution.

Closing Date: 01/01/2026
Interview Date: 14/01/2026 (tbc)

For an informal discussion regarding this post, please contact James Chong (biohod@york.ac.uk) Head of Department.

For further information on the Department of Biology, please visit http://www.york.ac.uk/biology/

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork