Research Associate

Location: Hammersmith Campus (East Acton)

Job Summary

We have received British Heart Foundation funding to further our studies on m6A RNA methylation in the heart. This project will study the impact of the “m6A writer” METTL3 methylase in the diabetic and ischaemic heart. At mechanistic level, we will focus on the impact of METTL3 on microRNA processing in human cardiac endothelial cells, prepared from clinical samples. Together with molecular and cellular studies, in vivo experiments are a fundamental part of these studies.

The postholder will have a full understanding of cardiovascular and diabetes research as well as gene therapy and regenerative medicine, and will have already successfully worked in these areas of research during, or after, PhD studies.  The postholder will combine the use of endothelial cell culture and mouse disease models to mechanistically demonstrate the therapeutic benefit of cardiac METTL-3 gene therapy in the post-MI diabetic heart. Previous excellent expertise in experimental surgery (mouse LAD), histology and cell culture are essential. Expertise in RNA biology is also required to support state-of the art RNA-sequencing technologies

Duties and responsibilities:

• We are looking for a motivated Researcher who has a wide literature knowledge in gene therapy and regenerative medicine in the setting of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

A suitable candidate will have first-hand experience with:

• In vivo mouse studies, including LAD-ligation with recovery;

Histology, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, and morphometric analyses on heart section

• Primary culture of cardiovascular cells and cell biology assays

RNA and protein analyses 

• The postholder will be familiar with the relevant wet-lab based approaches and techniques, and have a track record of excellent research in vitro and in vivo.
• They will conduct all the experiments and data analyses; and will write the papers for publication, reporting the result of this study (and revise it following input from the PI and other authors)

Essential requirements

This post offers an excellent opportunity for academic career advancement in one of the best global research institutions and as part of a highly regarded research group.

• Applicants must have a laboratory-based PhD degree, or working toward one, in a cardiovascular subject or equivalent industrial experience. Please see the job description and person specification document associated with this advert for the full list of criteria.
• Willingness to learn and to be flexible are essential.
• The ability to interact effectively with scientists in a related discipline, including clear communication, is required.
• Adequate interpersonal skills are also a key requirement, as is commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
• A commitment to data quality is essential. An understanding of the process and importance of publishing is essential.

Further Information

This is a Fulltime, fixed term role for 14 months based at Hammersmith Campus.

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £40,694 - £43,888 per annum.

To be considered candidates need to complete an online application.

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: c.emanueli@imperial.ac.uk

For technical issues when applying online please email sjobs@ic.ac.uk

Closing date: 30/04/2024

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