We are seeking
to appoint a Research Assistant to join the Nuffield Department of Medicine to work on modelling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and transcriptomic analysis of derived neurons. The project investigates transcriptomic changes linked to early stages of Motor Neuron Disease (MND) and ALS, focusing on the misregulation of TDP-43 and associated RNA processing defects. The work aims to identify and validate transcriptomic changes, potential drug targets and biomarkers, and to develop and optimise neuronal models to characterise disease mechanisms. You will be responsible for the culture and characterisation of iPSC-derived neuronal models and the generation of novel cell lines using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. You will utilise mRNA- and iCLIP-sequencing approaches to analyse RNA expression and regulation changes, undertake cellular and biochemical assays using advanced cell and molecular biology and imaging techniques, and conduct a small molecule screen in collaboration with the Oxford Drug Discovery Institute. You will design, test and optimise antisense oligonucleotides to alter RNA processing defects, contribute to data analysis and interpretation with support from bioinformatics and imaging teams, and assist in scientific reports, publications and presentations. The role also includes adapting and developing experimental protocols, contributing to laboratory management and collaborative projects, and complying with health and safety regulations. It is essential that you hold an MSc degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Genetics/Genomics or a related area and have experience and knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS. You must have experience in iPSC-derived neuron culture and sterile technique, prior knowledge of conducting small molecule screens, and experience in molecular biology techniques including cloning, RT-PCR, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence and microscopy. You should be highly motivated, able to interpret and optimise experimental work, work collaboratively across teams, and demonstrate excellent communication skills including presenting research results in laboratory and external meetings.