Grade UE07: £41,064- £48,822 per annum
College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine/School of Neurological and Cardiovascular Sciences/Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research
Full-time: 35 hours per week, 100% on-site
Fixed-term: for 36 months
The Opportunity:
This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic translational research lab that has expertise in working with organoids.
The position is for a senior post-doctoral research scientist and is focused on supporting the development of a novel cardiac drug screening platform, with the primary responsibility being the generation of human stem cell–derived (iPSC) cardiospheroids, subsequent biochemical and molecular testing and engagement with the development of a commercialisation strategy. The post is based at the University of Edinburgh, and the post-doctoral research scientist will work under the guidance of Professor Shareen Forbes.
The post-holder will produce and test the cardiospheroids using the novel biomedical instrument developed which is currently at the prototype stage which has been designed by the investigators to overcome bottlenecks in screening for drug-induced cardiac arrhythmias. Testing will include comparison of biochemical and molecular status with electrical responses from the cardiospheroids with standard electrophysiological measurements and other modalities working alongside electrophysiologists. Following drug exposure and manipulation cardiospheroids will be further assessed with downstream analyses using a range of molecular/cellular techniques.
The post holder will work closely with engineers at Heriot-Watt University (Dr Euan Brown) and scientists in drug discovery (Professor Neil Carragher) and their respective teams in order to support the further development of the device for commercial readiness including the development of the device with an automated throughput system for cardiospheroid handling.
The role also includes participation in the implementation of a Quality Management System to ensure ISO compatibility. The post-doctoral research scientist will contribute to report writing, IP reviews, business planning, and regulatory documentation, working alongside experts in commercialisation and regulatory development.
The position is supported by a British Heart Foundation Translational Award to develop a diagnostic platform for screening new drugs for cardiac arrhythmias, with the goal of commercial readiness. The project offers a unique opportunity for a senior researcher to understand the steps necessary for successful commercialisation.
The laboratory also hosts projects funded by charitable foundations and industry, including work on stem cell–derived islets, and comprises a multidisciplinary team of post-doctoral researchers, clinician scientists, technicians, coordinators and PhD students.
Your skills and attributes for success:
1. Experience in stem cell organoid generation.
2. Experience in a wide range of molecular biology techniques, imaging software and statistical skills.
3. Ability to work in a team and communicate ideas well between disciplines.
4. Ability to think critically and direct own research independently.
5. Record of publications.
Diverse career opportunities
With roles from hospitality to research, there’s a career for everyone at the University of Edinburgh. We can offer opportunities for you to develop in your career and make a real difference in the communities around us while contributing to the world at large.
Roles for every stage of your career
We offer careers and roles in just about every area you can think of. Whether you are looking for entry-level, mid-career or roles at the top of your chosen specialism, we can offer you a career where you can flourish and make a real difference in the communities around us while contributing to the world at large. Our people come from a wide range of backgrounds, each bringing their abilities and experiences to our organisation.
A unique employer in a vibrant city
The University isn’t just any employer. We are part of a local community and a contributor to global thinking, progress and research. In Edinburgh, you are in one of the world’s most attractive cities with active arts and social sectors, while working in a University that has made significant contributions to society, medicine, physics and teaching for over four centuries. Our people have helped create the modern world and are working on more ground-breaking technologies and practices.
Make a meaningful impact
Join the University of Edinburgh and you’ll be making a difference to everything around you. Be part of something bigger — where you’ll do meaningful work, grow and progress, be rewarded and recognised, and benefit from our strong commitment to your wellbeing. There are so many reasons to join us.
Job type: Academic
People have always been at the heart of our work. As part of the University, you are a part of our community. We are looking for people with drive, determination, and a passion for what they do. We are a place where everyone is welcome and offer a range of policies and benefits designed to support you in building the right meaningful/personalised flexibility for you.
View the full