Research Fellow/Associate

The University is seeking a Research Fellow to have specific responsibility for research, developing objectives and proposals for a stem cell biology and bioinformatics research project. You will manage, plan and conduct own research activity using recognised approaches, methodologies and techniques within the research area and resolve problems in meeting research objectives and deadlines in collaboration with others, and will be responsible for writing up your work for publication. You will need a PhD or equivalent in relevant subject area or the equivalent in professional qualifications and experience in research area or be near to completion of a PhD.  The central research question is to ask whether small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are involved in the regulation of heart function, and have the potential to contribute to heart failure. 

In collaboration with two other postdoctoral researchers employed by the project at the University of Liverpool and the University of East Anglia, our academic-clinical consortium will address key Objectives by asking:

1) What role do snoRNAs have in regulation of genotype-phenotype? This will involve overexpressing and CRISPR knocking out snoRNAs in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC)-cardiovascular cells, and then evaluating the impact on molecular and cell biology. 

2) What role can snoRNAs provide in early diagnosis of HCM? We will ask whether snoRNAs in free circulation or encapsulated in EVs in the blood of HCM patients are useful biomarkers for early detection at rest versus during moderate exercise. 

3) How can druggability of HCM be improved? Our discovery of a putative new regulatory loop suggests new and/or complementary pathways exist with druggable targets for HCM therapy.

This project is co-led by two academics with highly complementary skillsets. Research interests of Prof. Denning’s lab are in using hiPSCs to explore heart function in response to genetic disease or drug challenge, while Victoria James’ lab brings skills in extracellular vesicle biology and a breadth of knowledge on bioinformatics. You will need the ability to build relationships and collaborate with others, internally and externally, including University partners in Liverpool and East Anglia, which may involve travel /working between sites. 

The role includes contribution to efficient running of labs, adherence to processes for H&S. You are expected to make a contribution to teaching in balance with wider contributions to research and other activities (not more than 10% of time).

You will identify opportunities and assist in writing bids for research grant applications, prepare proposals and applications to external and/or internal funding bodies, contractual or accreditation purposes. You will have the opportunity to identify areas for research, develop research methods and extend your research portfolio.

The post is offered from 1st June 2023 on a full time (36.25 hours per week) contract, with underlying funding until 31st May 2028.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Chris Denning on email chris.denning@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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