Post-doctoral Research Assistant (Sperm Biology) - UOD1906

We are recruiting for an exceptional individual to join us as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) within the Reproductive Medicine Research Group, to be part of a large multi-disciplinary project, funded by the Gates Foundation, to explore infertility phenotypes to inform pre-clinical work in drug discovery for both infertility and the development of novel nonhormonal contraceptives. This is a fixed-term appointment until 30/06/2027.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a team operating at the cutting edge of technologies and human systems to further our understanding of male infertility. You will be regularly interacting with team members at the School of Medicine (Prof Barratt, Dr Johnston, and Dr Martins da Silva), as well as collaborators in the University of Munster and University of Birmingham, and presenting ideas/data/written reports at bi-monthly team meetings. You will be able to hone your cell biology skills within a highly collaborative environment, with opportunity available to develop new techniques/assays for sperm function assessment.

You will be based mainly at Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, one of Europe's largest teaching hospitals where the School of Medicine provides outstanding opportunities in medical education and training supported by world class research facilities.

Your priorities will include:

• Development/modification and execution of assays/methods to assess impact of compounds on human spermatozoa. These will encompass single cell and large-scale screening.
• Assessment of key pathways related to sperm motility, calcium signalling and the acrosome reaction.
• Development/use of in vitro models mimicking the in vivo environment.
• Collaboration with colleagues to standardise assay conditions internationally, as well as share data and ideas.

Who we're looking for:

• PhD in a biological/life sciences subject with experience in sperm biology or reproductive biology
• Ability to problem-solve, trouble-shoot and work independently to deadlines.
• A strong track record in cell-based research preferably with experience in developing quantitative biochemical or cell biological assays.
• Knowledge of microscopy (preferably in live imaging but this is not essential) and flow cytometry.
• A track record of involvement in successful collaborative research projects and the proven ability to work as part of a team with demonstrable communication and project management, skills and an ability to multi-task.

The calibre of research at Dundee is high, with 95 per cent of staff working in areas of national or international excellence. Dundee benefits from a developed network of inter-disciplinary researchers collaborating across various Schools across our community.

The University of Dundee is a signatory of the Researcher Development Concordat and is committed to enhancing the research environment and culture. Engagement and support of activities which assist the researcher development agenda at the University is therefore essential.

For further information about this position please contact Dr Zoe Johnston at z.y.johnston@dundee.ac.uk or Dr Sarah Martins da Sliva at s.martinsdasilva@dundee.ac.uk

The diversity of our staff and students helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning. Family friendly policies, staff networks for BME, Disabled and LGBT staff, membership of Athena SWAN, the ECU Race Equality Charter and Stonewall as well a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive place to work.