Research Assistant in Systems Neuroscience (M/F)

InsermCentre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon
Location: Lyon
Start date: June 1, 2026
Duration: 3-month fixed-term contract (renewable)
Type: Full-time


About the position

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the Adaptive Control group (COPHY team) at the CRNL. The project is part of the ERC-funded CRACK-5HT program and focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms underlying action selection using mouse models.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development of miniaturized behavioral devices and their integration with neural recording and stimulation techniques (optogenetics, photometry, electrophysiology).


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct in vivo experiments in mice

  • Perform stereotaxic surgeries (micro-injections, implants)

  • Behavioral training and pharmacological manipulations

  • Data acquisition and analysis

  • Histological processing

  • Contribute to scientific publications and reports

  • Participate in lab activities


Profile

Required qualifications

  • Master’s degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience, bioengineering, cognitive science, or related fields

  • Certification in animal experimentation

Skills

  • Strong experimental and analytical skills

  • Experience with scientific programming and/or electronics is a plus

  • Good command of English (written and spoken)

Preferred experience

  • Rodent experimentation

  • Stereotaxic surgery

  • Electrophysiology and/or optogenetics

Personal qualities

  • Team player with strong communication skills

  • Autonomous, rigorous, and proactive


Environment & benefits

  • Multidisciplinary research environment (~450 members)

  • Access to cutting-edge platforms and facilities

  • Possibility to attend international conferences

  • Flexible work arrangements (up to 1 day/week remote)


How to apply

Please send your CV and cover letter (including salary expectations) to:
romain.ligneul@inserm.fr

Application deadline: May 1, 2026