Research Associate - Synaptic Dysfunction in Neurodegeneration

Job description:

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) to join a collaborative research programme with the aim to gain understanding of the mechanisms and the role of synaptic dysfunction and impaired neurotransmission in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD).

You will work within a team of two postdoctoral research assistants and two senior research technicians under a 5-year MRC-funded collaborative research programme. The programme will involve electrophysiological and microscopy-based interrogation of synaptic function in vitro in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models of ALS/FTD and primary neuron cultures. Further, this work will investigate underlying mechanisms using high-resolution genetic and biochemical perturbations combined with state-of-the art proteomics and determine the role of synaptic dysfunction as a driver of disease using Drosophila models.

In this post you will lead the maintenance of curated iPSCs and the generation of iPSC-derived neuronal cultures in which synaptic function will be examined using state-of-the-art electrophysiological and microscopy-based assays. You will contribute to all other aspects of the project, including the investigations of underlying mechanisms. Under direction of the PIs, you will be expected to design, execute and interpret experiments, compile reports and publications, and to present at lab group and scientific meetings, as well as to coordinate and direct the work of the technicians supporting the project.

The ideal candidate will be a practically skilled, well-organised and dedicated individual with a proven track record in human iPSC-based disease modelling, ideally with experience in iPSC-derived neuronal cultures. Previous experience in the characterisation of neuronal function (e.g., electrophysiology), primary neuron cultures, and lentiviral and AAV viral vectors, would be highly advantageous. Proficiency in molecular cloning, PCR, biochemistry (western, IP) and fluorescence microscopy would also be valuable to the role. Candidates should also demonstrate a history of science communication (e.g. presentations, outreach activities, teaching/supervision).

This post is fixed term for 3 years with a possible 1-year extension and is available now.

Please note whilst the role is at Postdoctoral Research level and requires candidates to hold a PhD/DPhil (or equivalent), we may consider candidates who are close to completion of their PhD/DPhil qualification, in which case the initial appointment will be made at grade 6 (to be increased to grade 7 on completion of the PhD/DPhil qualification).

Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Prof Kurt De Vos (k.de_vos@sheffield.ac.uk) and Dr Matthew Livesey (m.r.livesey@sheffield.ac.uk) to discuss the project prior to application.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

Advert information