Postdoc Research Assistant/Associate in interferon-mediated neuropathology
Type I interferons (IFN-I) are best known as an essential mediator of antiviral immunity, yet their neurotoxic potential is increasingly acknowledged. A common signature of dysregulated IFN-I signalling has been identified across a diverse range of neurological disease states, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases as well as aging and vascular diseases of the CNS.
Identification of shared pathomechanism in these disorders would offer an efficient route to therapy. Dementias alone cost the UK economy more than £17 billion according to UK government estimates. The burden of disease is expected to rise as populations age, with projections suggesting 25% of the European population will be aged over 65 in 2030. Yet fundamental questions remain unanswered concerning the possible involvement of IFN-I in neurological disease, foremost among them whether IFN-I contributes directly to CNS disease or is induced as a consequence of neurological damage.
Arguably the strongest evidence for a directly causal role in neuropathology comes from a group of rare inborn errors of immunity termed type I interferonopathies. Our group previously identified a type I interferonopathy associated with homozygous mutation of STAT2. We have generated a mouse model of this disorder, in which neurological disease is recapitulated and where multiple CNS cell types including microglia, neurones and endothelial cells exhibit pathological effects. This project explores the cellular drivers of IFN-mediated pathology using conditional in vivo expression of the pathogenic allele in individual cell types, allied with human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) models of the corresponding cell types in vitro.
The Role
The postholder will contribute ideas, including enhancements to the technical or methodological aspects of their studies, thus providing substantial 'added value'. Key responsibilities include:
* Develop and carry out the specified project using appropriate techniques and equipment
* Determine appropriate methodologies for research, with advice and support where required
* Contribute to grant applications submitted by others and in time develop own research objectives and proposals for funding
* Assess research findings for the need/scope for further investigations
* Contribute to the writing up of their research for publication and dissemination
* Present research findings, either at conferences or through publications in reputable outlets
The Person
We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a strong background in immunology or neuroscience. Essential criteria include:
* Ability to work well as part of a team and rapidly acquire new skills
* Detailed knowledge of innate antiviral immunity
* Advanced skills related to the research projects
* High level of analytical and problem-solving capability
* Ability to communicate complex information with clarity and to encourage the commitment of others
Qualifications
Qualifications required include:
* BSc in relevant subject (minimum 2:1) required (Research Assistant)
* MRes or equivalent in relevant subject required (Research Assistant)
* A PhD in immunology or neuroscience required (Research Associate)
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