Overview
You will work within a team of two postdoctoral research assistants and two senior research technicians under a 5-year MRC-funded collaborative research programme. The programme will involve electrophysiological and microscopy-based interrogation of synaptic function in vitro in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models of ALS/FTD and primary neuron cultures. Further, this work will investigate underlying mechanisms using high-resolution genetic and biochemical perturbations combined with state-of-the-art proteomics and determine the role of synaptic dysfunction as a driver of disease using Drosophila models.
Responsibilities
* Lead the maintenance of curated iPSCs and the generation of iPSC-derived neuronal cultures in which synaptic function will be examined using state-of-the-art electrophysiological and microscopy-based assays.
* Contribute to all other aspects of the project, including investigations of underlying mechanisms.
* Under the direction of the PIs, design, execute and interpret experiments, compile reports and publications, and present at lab group and scientific meetings.
* Coordinate and direct the work of the technicians supporting the project.
Qualifications
* Practically skilled, well-organised and dedicated individual with a proven track record in human iPSC-based disease modelling, ideally with experience in iPSC-derived neuronal cultures.
* Previous experience in the characterisation of neuronal function (e.g., electrophysiology), primary neuron cultures, and lentiviral and AAV viral vectors would be highly advantageous.
* Proficiency in molecular cloning, PCR, biochemistry (western, IP) and fluorescence microscopy would also be valuable to the role.
* History of science communication (e.g. presentations, outreach activities, teaching/supervision).
Contract and Start
This post is fixed term for 3 years with a possible 1-year extension and is available now. While the role is at Postdoctoral Research level and requires candidates to hold a PhD/DPhil (or equivalent), we may consider candidates who are close to completion of their PhD/DPhil qualification, in which case the initial appointment will be made at grade 6 (to be increased to grade 7 on completion of the PhD/DPhil qualification).
Application and Diversity
Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Prof Kurt De Vos (k.de_vos@sheffield.ac.uk) and Dr Matthew Livesey (m.r.livesey@sheffield.ac.uk) to discuss the project prior to application.
We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.
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