Research Assistant/Associate

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

The Role
We are seeking a motivated Research fellow to join our group of investigators (Lako, Armstrong, Sernagor) at Bioscience Institute to develop a gene-agnostic proof-of-concept photoreceptor transplantation approach that could benefit both USH2A and Retinitis Pigmentosa patients. The research fellow will generate "universal" pluripotent stem cells using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, differentiate those to photoreceptor precursors and test their ability to engraft in a mouse model of advanced retinal degeneration using a combination of subretinal injection, FISH and immunofluorescence assays of transplanted retinas, and electrophysiological and behavioural tests.

This Retina UK funded work follows from our recent work on characterisation and transplantation of CRX-photoreceptors in rd1 mice (PMID: 30681766) and measuring their light responses (PMID: 33657251).

A scientific background on pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation to retinal organoids and retinal biology will be essential and applicants with record of accomplishment and expertise in gene editing in pluripotent stem cells and retinal organoids are preferred. Importantly experience of animal handling, subretinal injections, immunofluorescence analyses of mouse retinas and multielectrode array (MEA) recordings are highly desirable for this post.

The post-holder will work under the direction of all three investigators from 1st of March 2023 fulltime for 3 years on a fixed-term contract.

For Informal enquiries please contact Professor Linda Lako (majlinda.lako@ncl.ac.uk), Prof. Lyle Armstrong (lyle.armstrong@ncl.ac.uk) and Prof. Evelyne Sernagor (evelyne.sernagor@ncl.ac.uk).

As part of our commitment to career development for research staff, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a science, medicine or health-related subject.
• PhD in a relevant subject area.

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